Correlation Between Smokeless Tobacco (Naswar) Use with Dental Caries and Halitosis Among Afghan Patients in 2024 a Case-Control Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58342/ghalibMj.V.2.I.1.2.3Keywords:
Naswar, Smokeless tobacco, Dental caries, Oral hygiene, Halitosis, Afghanistan, Public healthAbstract
Background: The consumption of smokeless tobacco (Naswar) is common in many contries including Afghanistan, and is associated with various oral and dental health issues. This study investigates the relationship between Naswar consumption, dental caries, and oral hygiene problems among patients visiting the dental clinic at the Ghalib University Hospital in Kabul.
Methods: Prospective case-control research conducted from March 2023 to September 2023, involving 121 participants, specifically males aged 16 to 65 years. The participants were divided into two groups: the case group (27 individuals) who consumed Naswar and the control group (94 individuals) who did not consume any tobacco products. Data were collected through a detailed questionnaire and clinical examination, and the analysis was performed using SPSS 26.
Results: The study found that 95.9% of participants had dental caries, with molars being the most commonly affected teeth. Furthermore, 43.8% of the participants reported Halitosis, and a significant association was observed between Naswar use and the presence of Halitosis (p < 0.05). However, no significant correlation was found between Naswar consumption and the severity or class of dental caries (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Naswar consumption is associated with oral hygiene problems, particularly bad breath, but its effect on the severity of dental caries has not been conclusively proven. The high rate of dental caries in the study sample indicates the need for enhanced public awareness and preventive measures, especially among tobacco users.
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