Comparison of periodontal inflammatory conditions among habitual gutka chewers and betel quid chewers.

OBJECTIVE: The aim was to compare the periodontal inflammatory conditions among habitual gutka chewers and betel quid (BQ) chewers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-five gutka chewers, 45 BQ chewers and 50 non-chewers (controls) were included. Demographic data regarding age, gender, duration, and frequency of gutka- and BQ-chewing habits and gingival bleeding were collected using a questionnaire. Clinical periodontal parameters [plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (AL)] were recorded. Marginal bone loss (MBL) was measured on digital panoramic radiographs. Group differences in periodontal inflammatory parameters were tested using univariate and multivariable analyses (alpha < 5%). RESULTS: Periodontal inflammatory parameters [PI, BOP, PD (4-6 and >6 mm), clinical AL and MBL] were significantly high in gutka and BQ chewers than controls. There was no significant difference in periodontal inflammatory parameters among gutka and BQ chewers. The odds for gingival bleeding were six times and 13 times higher in gutka and BQ chewers, respectively, compared to controls. Comparison of gutka and BQ chewers did not significantly increase the odds of gingival bleeding. CONCLUSION: Periodontal inflammatory conditions were comparable among habitual gutka and BQ chewers; which suggests that gutka chewers and BQ chewers are equally susceptible to periodontal disease.