Polish Journal of Public Health

Review Article, Pol J Public Health, Vol. 134 (2024): 112-117

Emanuela Bis¹, Martyna Woźniak¹, Patrycja Zwierzchlewska¹, Aleksandra Gębka¹, Karolina Thum-Tyzo², Renata Chałas²

¹ Student Research Group at the Department of Oral Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Poland
² Department of Oral Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Poland

 10.12923/2083-4829/2024-0025

© 2024 Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonComercial-No Derivs licence (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/

Abstract

The mucous membrane of the oral cavity is susceptible to various pathological conditions, such as ulcers, inflammations, or tumors. Traditional methods of treating these diseases can come with limitations or trigger undesirable effects. Biopolymers, due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, low toxicity, and ability to regulate regenerative processes, can offer alternative therapeutic approaches. Among the natural polymers used in the treatment of oral mucosal diseases are hyaluronic acid, chitosan, cellulose, and collagen. PubMed and ResearchGate databases were included for a thorough analysis of applications of biopolymers in the treatment of oral mucosal diseases. Biopolymers have a wide range of applications in dental practice. They can be used in the form of gels, creams, rinses, and patches. Natural polymers are utilized as matrices for drug creation and transport. Thanks to their antibacterial, antifungal, and antiinflammatory properties, they are employed in the treatment of conditions like recurrent aphthous stomatitis, lichen planus, and periodontal diseases. Their potential in alleviating symptoms and enhancing wound healing in ulcerative oral cavity diseases has been demonstrated. Biopolymers have also found use in the treatment of oral cancer by increasing the apoptotic index and sensitizing tumors to radiation and chemotherapy. Biopolymers, due to their advantages and multifaceted effects, can serve as alternative methods for treating oral mucosal diseases compared to traditional approaches. In order to confirm their effectiveness, safety, and practical application, further research and assessment of their long-term effects are necessary.

Keywords: biopolymers, polymers, oral mucosa diseases.