Possible Dysbiosis and Altered Normal Flora in the Oral Cavity of Tobacco Chewers

Background: In the Indian subcontinent, the use of smokeless tobacco is more widespread than smoking tobacco. Patterns of use vary based on factors such as age, sex, and social status. Oral flora supports the body’s defense mechanisms and helps inhibit the colonization of harmful external microorganisms. Objectives: This study aimed to identify dysbiosis in the oral cavity of tobacco chewers and to explore the risk factors that lead to harmful bacterial growth in the oral cavity of tobacco chewers through questionnaire-based evaluations. Methods: We included gutkha chewers as the test group and non-chewers as the control group. Other parameters of dental hygiene and symptoms of poor oral health were also evaluated, and we found that very few in the chewer’s group had the habit of using a mouthwash or visiting the dentist regularly. Results: Fifty-five per cent of the chewers showed no growth in oral swab culture as compared with the control group. As compared with non-chewers, the chewers also reported symptoms like pain, tenderness, dry mouth, and bad breath, etc. Conclusions: This study is a reflection of a society where individuals are attracted to gutkha and tobacco at a very early age. There are many factors, and the most important one is its easy availability near schools and colleges.