Prophylactic Effects of Chlorine Compounds on Recurrent Aphthous Ulceration

Objective: Purpose of the study was to evaluate the effects of 2 different chlorine compounds on recurrent aphthous ulcerations (RAU). Method: The study was performed on 30 RAU patients divided into 2 groups. None of these patients had aphthous ulcer at presentation. In the first group 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate and in the latter 0.1% Chloramin-T mouthwashes were applied. The follow-up period was 3 months and cytological smear examination of the buccal mucosa was done before and at the end of the study. Results: Aphthous ulcer formation did not occur clinically during this study in both groups. In cytological examination no statistically significant difference could be demonstrated in maturation index to examine the keratinisation and oral flora between 2 groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: We have observed the same effect of both compounds concerning prophylaxis of RAU; however, by cytological examination, we could not prove keratinisation effect of chlorine compounds. Further studies must be carried out to evaluate mechanisms of chlorine compounds activity in the prophylaxis of RAU.