Patterns of Periodontal Destruction among Smokeless Tobacco Users in a Central Indian Population

Background: Findings of studies testing the association between smokeless tobacco (SLT) use and periodontal health have shown varying results in different populations. Considering the high prevalence of SLT use in India, the present study was conducted to understand the pattern of periodontal destruction within different areas of the dentition among SLT users.

Methods: Age, gender, oral hygiene habits, the frequency and duration of SLT consumption, the type of SLT product used, and the site of retention of the SLT product in the oral cavity were recorded among 90 SLT users. Probing depth (PD), recession (REC), and clinical attachment loss (CAL) at SLT-associated and non SLT-associated teeth of the mandibular arch were compared based on the site of retention of the SLT product, the type of product used, and the duration of the habit.

Results: REC and CAL were significantly higher at the SLT-associated zones compared to non SLT-associated zones and at both interproximal and mid-buccal sites of SLT-associated teeth. Among individuals who had the habit for more than 5 years and also among those who had the habit for 5-10 years, PD, REC, and CAL were significantly higher at SLT-associated teeth than at non SLT-associated teeth. Significantly greater periodontal destruction was observed at SLT-associated teeth among khaini users and gutkha users.

Conclusions: Smokeless tobacco consumption resulted in greater destruction of periodontal tissues. The severity of periodontal destruction at SLT-associated sites differed depending on the type of smokeless tobacco used, the site of retention of the SLT, and the duration of the habit.