The impact of 0.24% hyaluronic acid gel on pain level and periodontal status following labial frenectomy

Abstract

Aim: The labial frenum is a mucosal fold that connects the upper lip to the alveolar ridge. Frenectomy involves the surgical removal of a mucosal fold. The traditional surgical technique utilizing a scalpel remains popular for performing a frenectomy. The study aims to examine the effectiveness of applying Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Gel after conventional frenectomy. Methods: This research comprised 48 young patients (25 girls and 23 boys) aged 8 to 14. Participants were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1: Conventional Scalpel Surgery and Sterile Saline (SS) (n=24) and Group 2: Conventional Scalpel Surgery+HA (Aftamed, Child Gel 24% HA) (n=24). After measuring the participants’ periodontal parameters, the frenectomy was performed. Postoperative pain levels were evaluated daily for one week utilizing a 10-point Visual Analog Scale. Before frenectomy, Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), Pocket Depth (PD), Bleeding On Probing (BOP), Keratinized Gingival Width (KGW), Attached Gingival Thickness (AGT) values were measured and recorded. The periodontal parameters were assessed and analyzed after a 3-month follow-up period. Results: VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) was assessed. The application of Although 0.24% HA gel caused less pain from days 1-3.6, there was no significant difference in pain levels between the HA gel and control groups (p>0.05). Pain levels were equal between groups on day 7. No significant changes in PI, GI, PD, BOP, KGW, or AGT values after three months of follow-up (p>0.05). Conclusions: During the first week after a frenectomy performed with classic scalpel surgery, the application of 0.24% HA gel did not significantly reduce pain levels. It did not result in significant changes in other measured periodontal parameters after three months of follow-up.