Topical Zinc Shows Promise for Painful Oral Conditions

Zinc has long been utilised as a therapeutic agent for skin and mouth issues, but a recent systematic review has sought to quantify its true efficacy. Researchers analysed data from 14 studies, including randomised controlled trials (RCTs), to evaluate how well topical zinc treats oral mucosal diseases.

The strongest evidence supported its use for oral mucositis, a painful inflammation often caused by cancer treatments. A meta-analysis of seven RCTs confirmed that patients treated with zinc saw significant improvements at weeks two, three, and four compared with control groups.

Results for other conditions were mixed. For recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS)—commonly known as canker sores—zinc appeared to reduce pain and ulcer size, though significant differences were found in only one trial. Similarly, while symptoms improved for oral lichen planus (OLP), outcomes varied. While further comprehensive research is needed for these latter conditions, topical zinc presents a compelling option for managing the side effects of cancer therapy.