Reduced Salivary Flow Rate in Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis among Dental Students
Maria Leny Raiyon, Rahmi Amtha*, Jonathan Rahardja, Indrayadi Gunardi, Dewi Priandini

Oral Medicine and Oral Pathology Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Trisakti, Jakarta, Indonesia

Abstract

Introduction: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a common oral condition influenced by various factors, including stress and salivary flow rate. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the differences in salivary flow rates among dental students during module exams, comparing those with recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) to those without. Method: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted with 60 subjects, selected through simple random sampling during their module exam period. The subjects were divided into two groups: those with RAS and those without. Unstimulated saliva flow rates (SFR) and the presence of RAS were documented. Data analysis was performed using a Mann-Whitney. Result: The total sample consisted of 65% females and 35% males, with 56.67% experiencing RAS, predominantly in females (79.41%). The most common sites for RAS were the labial mucosa (58.9%), the floor of the mouth (17.7%), and the buccal mucosa (14.7%). The mean SFR in the RAS group was 3.72(0.82) mL/10 min, while in the non-RAS group it was 6.25(1.80) mL/10 min. A significant difference in SFR was observed between the groups (p<0.001). RAS was more prevalent in female subjects and was associated with a reduced salivary flow rate. Conclusion: Dental students with recurrent aphthous stomatitis exhibited significantly lower salivary flow rates compared to those without RAS, with a higher prevalence observed among females. This suggests that reduced salivary flow may contribute to the development of RAS, particularly under the stress of exams.

Keywords: Dental student, RAS, Stress

Topic: Oral Pathology and Oral Medicine