Hyaluronic Acid in Dentistry: A Narrative Review

Abstract

  Biocompatibility, anti-inflammatory properties, and regenerative potential. It plays a crucial role in enhancing wound healing, reducing inflammation, and supporting tissue repair. This review aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy of HA in various dental applications, including periodontal therapy, oral surgery, implantology, and the management of oral mucosal lesions. A systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases, focusing on studies published in the last 5 years. Inclusion criteria comprised clinical trials, cohort studies, and systematic reviews assessing HA’s effects on oral lichen planus, oral ulcers, periodontal disease, and post-surgical healing. Studies were evaluated for quality using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The review identified five key studies demonstrating HA’s beneficial effects in dentistry. HA was shown to reduce pain and lesion size in oral lichen planus, enhance postoperative healing following third molar extractions, and improve alveolar ridge preservation when combined with demineralized bovine bone. Additionally, HA gel applications accelerated gingival healing post-gingivectomy, and its combination with photobiomodulation therapy further optimized wound repair. HA has proven to be a valuable adjunct in various dental treatments, promoting tissue regeneration and reducing postoperative complications. Its combination with other biomaterials and regenerative therapies enhances its clinical efficacy. However, further research is needed to standardize its application protocols and assess long-term outcomes. As advancements in biomaterials continue, HA is poised to play an increasingly significant role in modern dentistry.