Abstract
AIMS AND BACKGROUND: Betel quid chewing is commonly practiced by adolescents in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). A combination of areca nut, betel inflorescences, and slaked lime induces inflammation in the oral cavity. Recently, Lactobacillus reuteri has been used as an adjuvant therapy in managing periodontal tissue inflammation. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of probiotic consumption on plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and bleeding on probing (BOP) in adolescents with betel quid chewing habits in Alor Regency, NTT. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In an observational study, 16 male and 16 female students aged 13-15 years were recruited from Probur State Junior High School, Alor Regency, NTT. Subsequently, subjects were divided into two groups: the experimental group that was given L. reuteri probiotics twice a day for 14 days, and the control group that was not given the intervention. Dental health education, ultrasonic scaling, and instructions to continue daily betel quid chewing habits were given. Gingival inflammation was examined using PI, GI, and BOP at baseline, on days 7 and 14. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in PI, GI, and BOP scores before and after consuming L. reuteri for 7 and 14 days (p < 0.05). There was also a significant difference in GI and BOP between both groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Consuming L. reuteri probiotic for 7 and 14 days effectively reduces gingival inflammation, as assessed by PI, GI, and BOP, in adolescents with betel quid chewing habits. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: L. reuteri probiotic consumption reduces gingival inflammation in adolescents with betel quid chewing habits. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Marjani LI, Suharsini M, Fauziah E. Effectiveness of Lactobacillus reuteri Probiotics on Plaque Index, Gingival Index, and Bleeding on Probing in Adolescents with Betel Quid Chewing Habit: Study in Children Aged 13-15 Years in Alor Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2026;19(2):177-182.