Periodontal Disease in Smokers

Abstract

Background: A number of published studies demonstrated that smoking represents an increased risk for the development and progression of periodontal disease. Smoking affects the microbiota composition, immune response, and the healing capacity of the periodontium. The aim of this study is to determine the status of periodontal disease in smokers and have an overview about the need for smoking cessation and awareness programs to provide better periodontal health.
Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was carried out on 231 patients visiting the dental OPD of Bir Hospital who were smokers using convenience sampling. CPI modified index was carried out, and a comparison and analysis of the impact of different smoking status on periodontitis was done.
Results: Out of 231 smokers, 229 individuals (99.13%) had gingival bleeding, 209 individuals (90.47%) had periodontal pockets greater than 3mm and 198 individuals (85.71%) had loss of attachment more than 3mm.
Conclusions: Gingival bleeding, periodontal pocket and loss of attachment were significantly more prevalent among smokers, highlighting the importance of smoking cessation and awareness programs.
Keywords: Gingival bleeding; loss of attachment; periodontal pocket; periodontitis; smoking.