Effect of Propolis Extract in Combination with Eugenol-Free Dressing (Coe-PakTM) on Pain and Wound Healing after Crown-Lengthening: A Randomized Clinical Trial

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM: Researchers have long been in search of products to enhance healing and patient comfort postoperatively. PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of propolis extract in combination with Coe-Pak(TM) dressing for pain relief and wound healing after crown lengthening surgery. MATERIALS AND METHOD: This randomized clinical trial was performed on 36 patients who were randomly divided into two groups of Coe-Pak(TM) dressing with (trial group) and without (control group) propolis extract. Pain and burning sensation by use of visual analog scale (VAS) and number of analgesics taken were asked from patients. Gingival color and consistency, bleeding on probing (BOP) and presence of infection were studied 7 days after dressing removal. RESULTS: Although a large number of patients in the trial group did not have burning sensation, this difference was not significant between the two groups (p> 0.05). In both groups, the majority of patients experienced moderate and mild pain and there was no pain in the trial group after three days. No significant difference was noted between the two groups in pain score and number of analgesics taken (p> 0.05). The two groups were not significantly different in terms of inflammation and healing process (BOP, gingival consistency and color), after 7 days (p> 0.05). CONCLUSION: The study results showed no difference in use of Coe-Pak(TM) dressing with and without propolis extract in terms of postoperative pain and healing process following the crown lengthening surgery. More studies are required to confirm these results.