An evaluation of different treatments for recurrent aphthous stomatitis and patient perceptions: Nd:YAG laser versus medication.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this randomized controlled clinical trial was to determine the anxiety levels of patients with recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) prior to therapy with the Nd:YAG laser or medication, and to compare the effects of these different treatment methods on the degree of post-treatment pain, discomfort, and functional complications (eating and speech) experienced.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty patients with RAS-related oral problems were included in the study. Levels of pre- and post-treatment pain and functional complications were assessed at patient visits on days 1, 4, and 7.

RESULTS: The results indicated that patients treated with the Nd:YAG laser had less post-treatment pain and fewer functional complications, and reported immediate relief of pain and faster healing (p +/- 0.05). However, only after 5 d was there a significant reduction in the pain levels of the patients treated with medication.

CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that the Nd:YAG laser has better patient acceptance, shorter treatment time, and lower rates of pain and post-treatment adverse events among patients with RAS.