Abstract
BACKGROUND: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for oral health problems, including periodontal diseases, dental caries, and oral cancer. This study aimed to compare the oral health status of tobacco and non-tobacco users in a population attending Government Medical College, Kathua. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1000 participants, comprising 500 tobacco users and 500 non-tobacco users, selected through convenient sampling. Data on oral health status were collected using the World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Health Assessment Form. Clinical parameters such as decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT), oral hygiene index (OHI), and periodontal status were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, with a significance level set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: The mean DMFT score was significantly higher among tobacco users (4.7 ± 1.4) compared to non-tobacco users (2.2 ± 1.0) (P < 0.001). The OHI-S score indicated poor oral hygiene in 70% of tobacco users versus 28% of non-tobacco users (P < 0.05). Additionally, periodontal pocket depth was greater in tobacco users, with 55% showing pockets ≥4 mm compared to 12% of non-tobacco users (P < 0.001). The prevalence of leukoplakia and other tobacco-related oral lesions was observed in 22% of tobacco users and absent in non-tobacco users. CONCLUSION: Tobacco users exhibited significantly poorer oral health compared to non-tobacco users, with higher DMFT scores, poorer oral hygiene, and increased prevalence of periodontal disease and oral lesions. The findings underscore the need for targeted tobacco cessation programs and oral health education to mitigate the adverse effects of tobacco on oral health.