EVALUATION OF ATTACHABLE INTRA ORAL WOUND DRESSING TAPE IN ENHANCING POST EXTRACTION WOUND HEALING

Abstract Background: Effective control of post-operative bleeding and enhancement of wound healing are essential for optimal recovery following minor oral surgical procedures. Conventional cotton/gauze pressure packs often fail to maintain stable adherence, resulting in patient discomfort and delayed healing. Ora-Aid, a hydrocolloid-based adhesive dressing, offers improved stability and moisture retention that may benefit early healing. Materials and Methods: A randomized clinical study was conducted on 23 patients requiring similar minor oral surgical procedures. Participants were allocated to either the Ora-Aid group or the cotton/gauze group. Post-operative pain, wound healing progression, and bleeding control were assessed on Days 1, 2, and 3 using standardized clinical scales. Statistical analysis compared mean scores between groups with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Ora-Aid demonstrated significantly superior outcomes in all domains. Post-operative bleeding was notably lower in the Ora-Aid group, with improved hemostatic stability observed immediately after placement and during the early healing period. Pain scores showed a consistent reduction with Ora-Aid across Days 1–3 (p < 0.01), corresponding with greater patient comfort. Wound healing parameters revealed faster epithelialization and better tissue response in the Ora-Aid group compared to cotton/gauze. The average healing score was significantly higher for Ora-Aid (4.4 ± 0.5) than cotton/gauze (3.2 ± 0.8), (p = 0.001). Early wound closure and reduced inflammatory signs were more frequently observed in the Ora-Aid group. Conclusion: Ora-Aid proved more effective than conventional cotton/gauze for controlling post-operative bleeding and enhancing early wound healing. Its adhesive stability, moisture maintenance, and protective barrier effect contributed to improved clinical outcomes and patient comfort. Ora-Aid may serve as a reliable alternative to conventional dressings in routine oral surgical practice.