INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO THE TREATMENT OF HERPETIC STOMATITIS IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Herpetic stomatitis is one of the most common viral diseases of the oral cavity in childhood, primarily caused by Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). The disease is characterized by painful oral vesicles, ulcerations, fever, dehydration, feeding difficulties, irritability, and reduced quality of life. Conventional treatment mainly includes antiviral agents, symptomatic pain management, hydration, and oral hygiene support. However, recurrence, prolonged healing, secondary infection, and treatment intolerance remain significant clinical challenges. Therefore, modern pediatric dentistry increasingly focuses on innovative therapeutic approaches aimed at faster recovery, reduced pain, immune modulation, and prevention of recurrence. This article reviews current and emerging methods for treating herpetic stomatitis in children, including low-level laser therapy, probiotic therapy, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems, herbal bioactive agents, immunomodulators, regenerative gels, telemedicine monitoring, and personalized treatment protocols. The study also discusses their mechanisms, clinical benefits, limitations, and future prospects. The findings suggest that combining traditional antiviral therapy with innovative adjunctive methods significantly improves clinical outcomes, shortens healing time, enhances comfort, and reduces relapse frequency.