ALPHA TOCOPHEROL AS AN ADJUVANT IN DIABETIC PATIENTS-EXTENDING BENEFITS BEYOND EXTRACTION SOCKET HEALING

<p><strong><span>ABSTRACT</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span lang="EN-US">Background:</span></strong><span>Diabetic patients often present with delayed wound healing and increased risk of post-operative complications following dental extractions due to impaired microvascular function, oxidative stress, and altered immune response. Alpha-tocopherol (Vitamin E), a potent lipid-soluble antioxidant, has been shown to reduce oxidative damage and enhance tissue repair. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of vitamin E as an adjunct to reduce post operative complications in extraction in diabetic Patients.</span><strong><span lang="EN-US">Materials and Methods :</span></strong><span lang="EN-US">A total of 30 patients<strong> </strong>were randomly allocated to Group E and Group S. Vitamin E was applied to Gelfoam in extraction socket in Group E, while Group S received Gelfoam with saline. Postoperative pain, incidence of dry socket were evaluated on 3<sup>rd</sup> day and healing progression were evaluated on 3<sup>rd</sup> and 7<sup>th</sup> day using standardized clinical criteria <strong>Results: </strong>Vitamin E group showed significantly reduced postoperative pain, faster healing, and lower incidence of dry socket compared to control sites and no adverse effects related to Vitamin E application were observed .<strong>Conclusion:</strong><a name="_Hlk209998390"></a> Intrasocket Vitamin E application appears to be a safe and effective adjunct for improving postoperative outcomes in diabetic patients following tooth extraction, by promoting healing, reducing pain, and minimizing the risk of dry socket.</span></p> <p><strong><span lang="EN-US">Keywords: </span></strong><span lang="EN-US">Vitamin E; Diabetic patients; extraction; Postoperative complications; Dry socket</span></p>