Prevalence, Characteristics and Self-Management of Aphthous-Type Oral Ulcers among Yemeni Dental Students: Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background and Objective: Aphthous-type oral ulcers, often discussed in relation to recurrent aphthous stomatitis, can impair eating, speaking, and quality of life. Dental students may be particularly susceptible due to academic stress and other risk factors, yet data from Yemen are limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, clinical characteristics, triggers, and self-management practices of aphthous-type oral ulcers among Yemeni dental students.

Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional survey was conducted among 278 dental students from seven universities in Yemen. The questionnaire recorded demographic variables, smoking status, family history of aphthous ulcers, self-reported ulcer experience, reported sites, pain, interference with eating/drinking/speaking, other associated symptoms, perceived triggers, and management measures. Data were summarized descriptively using frequencies and percentages. Results were deemed significant when p < 0.05.

Results: Of the 278 respondents, 186 (66.9%) reported a history of aphthous-type oral ulcers. Commonly reported sites were the labial mucosa (37.5%), buccal mucosa (18.8%), and gingiva (18.8%). Among respondents who completed the symptom items, 72% reported pain and 76% reported interference with eating, drinking, or speaking. Stress was the most frequently perceived trigger (66.7%), followed by certain foods (22.2%). Self-management was common; antiseptic mouth rinses were the most frequently selected measure (31.0%), whereas only 4.0% sought professional care.

Conclusion: The overall finding of the current study highlights the negative effect of aphthous ulcers on quality of life and academic performance. These findings underscore the need for preventive strategies such as stress management programs and dietary counseling in dental education settings.