A Comparative Study of Dexamethasone Ointment along with Triamcinolone Acetonide in Treatment of Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis

Aim: To assess and compare the efficacy of dexamethasone ointment with triamcinolone acetonide, the gel form, in the treatment of minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS). Materials and Methods: This was a randomized clinical trial of 60 patients of either sex with clinically diagnosed RAS who were randomly divided into two groups-the dexamethasone ointment group (Group I) and the triamcinolone acetonide gel group (Group II). Patients were asked to apply the gel three times a day on each ulcer. Estimation of the efficacy of gel was done based on the time required for regression in pain, size, and number of ulcers. Results: The results showed there was a significant difference in size, pain, number, and duration of ulcers in Group I and Group II within 7 days. However, in both groups, no significant difference was noted in the treatment of RAS. Conclusion: Dexamethasone ointment was found to be efficient in this treatment and was safe as evaluated using clinical assessments.