Hyaluronic acid is a substance that is part of various body tissues, such as skin and mucous membranes, the fluid present in joints and cartilage.
It fulfills a protective, regenerative, and lubricating function that is vital for the proper functioning and repair of body tissues.
Currently, it is possible to obtain hyaluronic acid in laboratories and use it in many areas of dentistry and medicine, mainly in aesthetics and anti-aging.
Benefits of hyaluronic acid
Among the benefits that the use of hyaluronic acid can offer, we have:
- Hydration: hyaluronic acid can attract and retain water molecules, this generates an immediate moisturizing effect in the area where it is applied.
- Rejuvenating: hyaluronic acid can stimulate the cells responsible for the production of collagen and elastin, this reverses the visible signs of skin aging.
- Antioxidant: hyaluronic acid has a high antioxidant potential, by eliminating free radicals it favors the repair and regeneration of cells.
- Lubricant: hyaluronic acid infiltrations in the different joints of the body (including the jaw joint) are highly effective in relieving pain and improving joint function.
- Anti-inflammatory: works as a moderator and reducer of tissue inflammation, reducing discomfort and accelerating healing processes.
- Antiseptic: It has antibacterial properties that help keep wounds free of bacteria.
Hyaluronic Acid Risks
There is no risk associated with hyaluronic acid because it is a biocompatible substance that the human body can reabsorb over time, however, there are complications caused by poor technique or the use of poor quality products, That is why it is so important that only trained professionals provide this type of treatment.
Among the complications of the use of hyaluronic acid, we have:
- Inflammation: This is not due to hyaluronic acid but to the natural reaction of the tissues when being punctured by a needle, it usually lasts from a couple of hours to 2 or 3 days.
- Bruises: This happens when a blood vessel ruptures accidentally, they are usually very small and disappear on their own in a couple of days.
- Allergic Reactions: This is very rare as hyaluronic acid is biocompatible, however, it can occur due to the presence of other components in the product formula, skin rashes or redness may occur, so it is important to use quality products that comply with the appropriate health controls.
- Infections: Infections should not occur if the correct aseptic techniques are carried out on the area where the puncture will be performed. If they do occur, it is necessary to see a doctor to start antibiotic therapy.
- Skin necrosis: It is very rare since this is caused by a bad technique where hyaluronic acid is injected into a blood vessel, preventing blood flow to the area, this complication is severe and requires immediate medical attention.
Hyaluronic acid in cosmetic Dentistry
In cosmetic dentistry, hyaluronic acid is used as a “filler” or facial filling, this allows to give volume and modify the shape of different facial structures to correct asymmetries or simply to compensate for the loss of support caused by aging.
It can also be used as a moisturizer, in this case, minimal amounts are used that do not alter the size and shape of the face but do produce hydration and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.
Among the aesthetic treatments with hyaluronic acid, we have:
- Lip filling.
- Filler rhinoplasty.
- Correction of dark circles.
- Perioral rejuvenation.
- Correction of wrinkles on the temples and between the eyebrows.
- Chin projection.
- Filler of cheekbones.
Note: Although in most countries both dentists and medical doctors can carry out all these procedures, some countries in the European Union consider that cosmetic treatments in the middle and upper third of the face should only be carried out by doctors, and treatments in the lower third must be carried out by dentists; This will depend on the regulations in force in each country.
Hyaluronic acid in periodontics
Hyaluronic acid plays a coadjuvant role in the treatment of gingivitis and periodontal diseases since it has bacteriostatic, regenerative, lubricating, protective, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties.
It is usually used in the form of gels, membranes, and sponges that contribute to the healing and regeneration of periodontal tissues by preventing the passage of bacteria, modulating inflammation, and stimulating the cells responsible for tissue regeneration.
It is especially useful in guided tissue regeneration processes used to treat gum loss.
Hyaluronic acid in oral surgery
The use of hyaluronic acid in oral surgery contributes to better healing, a faster recovery period, and considerably reduces the chances of developing postoperative infections by keeping the surgical area free of bacteria.
In addition, it reduces typical discomfort after surgery by modulating inflammation and keeping the area hydrated.
Hyaluronic acid for mouth sores
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of hyaluronic acid make it an excellent coadjuvant agent in the healing of the oral mucosa, for this reason, many gels for mouth ulcers are formulated based on hyaluronic acid.
Hyaluronic acid for TMJ diseases
Intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid are highly efficient in reducing the symptoms of jaw joint dysfunction, reducing pain and inflammation.
In addition, hyaluronic acid has the potential to slow joint wear thanks to its lubricating properties and to improve the transport of nutrients to this area thanks to its moisturizing and regenerative properties.
Can dentists use hyaluronic acid?
Yes, dentists are trained to perform hyaluronic acid treatments in the mouth and face, although according to the regulations of some countries, their treatments are limited to the lower third of the face, that is, the mouth and the perioral area.
