ADVERSE ORAL HABITS AND PERIODONTAL HEALTH STATUS: A CROSS SECTIONAL CLINICAL STUDY.

Background:Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of periodontium and is characterized by loss of periodontal ligament and surrounding alveolar bone. It is highly prevalent in adolescents, adults, and older individuals. Numerous risk factors such as smoking, poor oral hygiene, adverse oral habits, medication and stress are associated with periodontal diseases. Aims and Objectives:The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of adverse oral habits and its association with the periodontal status among Saudi sub population of age between 15- 65 years. Material and methods:Three hundred and thirty patients, referred for periodontal therapy were selected. The patients were asked for any adverse oral habits and thenperiodontal parameters (Plaque index, gingival index, probing pocket depth and clinical attachment loss) were assessed. Results: Among 330 participants 69 (20.9%) had adverse oral habit of consuming tobacco either in the form of smoking or chewing, 23(7%) had bruxism and 6 (1.8%) nail biting habit. Parafunctional habits were found to be higher in female participants. Participants with adverse oral habit had PI (230/ 69.7%) and GI (284/86.1%) score of 2. Significant association was found between gender, adverse oral habit and mean CAL. Conclusion:The results of the present study revealed a significant increase in parafunctional habits among female participants. Substantial association among type of adverse oral habits and CAL. To minimize the incidence and progression of periodontal disease in these subjects through oral hygiene and regular dental visits should be encouraged.