Association Between Tobacco Chewing and Gingival Recession: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Tobacco contains various harmful substances that increases the risk of malignancy, dental caries, gingival diseases and causes staining of teeth. Gingival recession, characterized by exposure of the tooth root surface due to apical migration of free gingival margin, is a signicant oral health concern associated with tobacco chewing habit. Objective: To determine the signicance of gingival recession associated with the tobacco chewing habit in the city of Hyderabad. Materials And Methods: This study was conducted by OroGlee Solutions Private Limited, Hyderabad. A total of 2895 subjects aged 18 - 50 years were examined and grouped based on their tobacco chewing habit. Oral examination was done using an intraoral camera. Results: Percentage of people with tobacco chewing habit having gingival recession was 24.89% whereas people without tobacco chewing habit having gingival recession was 2.97%. Chi square test was used to determine the signicance of the difference between the prevalence of gingival recession in tobacco chewers and non-chewers. It illustrated a strong correlation between tobacco chewing and gingival recession. Conclusion: The impact of tobacco chewing on gingival health is undeniable. It accelerates gingival recession, compromises oral hygiene and heightens the risk of periodontal diseases. Seeking professional dental care combined with cessation of the habit is vital for addressing and preventing gingival recession.