The effectiveness of Turmeric gel in the healing of donor site for Free Gingival Graft

BACKGROUND: Preparation of turmeric extract gel with a concentration of 10% and comparing it with non-eugenol gingival dressing (Coe-PakTM) in the healing and re-epithelialization of palatal donor site after free gingival graft, and reduction of postoperative pain.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted on twenty-two patients with lack of attached gingival tissue for various reasons and received soft tissue augmentation via free gingival grafts. Participants were randomly divided into two equal groups: group I (test) was treated with 10% turmeric gel while group II (control) was treated with (Coe-PakTM). Both pain level index which assessed by using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Analgesic consumption index were recorded for 7 days after surgery. The healing index, the color match index, and the re-epithelialization index were assessed on days 7, 14, 21, and 28. Finally, wound size index was measured via periodontal Probe at baseline and days 7, 14, 21, 28, and after 2 months.RESULTS: Group I showed significant pain reduction measured by VAS and analgesic consumption on day 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 (p0.05). Group I demonstrated significant acceleration in the initial healing process during the 1st week (p=0.002) and 2nd week (p=0.01) with no significant difference between both groups in the 3rd and 4th weeks (p>0.05). Group I showed statistically higher VAS for the color match on day 7, 14, 21, and 28. No statistical difference was noted between the groups after two months. There was no statistical difference between groups I and II in the re-epithelialization and wound size index at any of the follow-up periods (p>0.05).CONCLUSION: 10% turmeric extract gel showed relief of post-operative pain, acceleration of the healing process, and better outcomes in terms of the color match for the palatal wound after free gingival grafting procedure comparing to the Coe-PakTM periodontal dressing.KEYWORDS: Curcumin; Free gingival graft; periodontal dressing; donor site