Relationship between betel quid chewing and radiographic alveolar bone loss among Taiwanese aboriginals: a retrospective study

Abstract

BackgroundBetel quid chewing is associated with the periodontal status; however, results of epidemiological studies are inconsistent. To the best of our knowledge, no study has reported radiographic alveolar bone loss (RABL) associated with betel quid chewing.MethodsThis survey was conducted in an aboriginal community in Taiwan because almost all betel quid chewers were city-dwelling cigarette smokers. In total, 114 subjects, aged 30–60 years, were included. Full-mouth intraoral RABL was retrospectively measured and adjusted for age, gender, and plaque index (PI). Multiple regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between RABL and potential risk factors.ResultsAge-, gender-, and PI-adjusted mean RABL was significantly higher in chewers with or without cigarette smoking than in controls. Multiple regression analysis showed that the RABL for consumption of 100,000 pieces betel quid for the chewer group was 0.40 mm. Full-mouth plotted curves for adjusted mean RABL in the maxilla were similar between the chewer and control groups, suggesting that chemical effects were not the main factors affecting the association between betel quid chewing and the periodontal status.ConclusionBetel quid chewing significantly increases RABL. The main contributory factors are age and oral hygiene; however, the major mechanism underlying this process may not be a chemical mechanism. Regular dental visits, maintenance of good oral hygiene, and reduction in the consumption of betel quid, additives, and cigarettes are highly recommended to improve the periodontal status.

Periodontal bone height of exclusive narghile smokers compared with exclusive cigarette smokers

“…In the present study, PBH was the main outcome used to evaluate periodontal health. Radiological exams evaluating PBH play a complementary role in assessing the periodontium in conjunction with periodontal probing ( 39 ). They have high sensitivity and reproducibility which yield fewer false-negative results compared with clinical records ( 39 ).…”

“…Radiological exams evaluating PBH play a complementary role in assessing the periodontium in conjunction with periodontal probing ( 39 ). They have high sensitivity and reproducibility which yield fewer false-negative results compared with clinical records ( 39 ). However, it was preferable to collect clinical data such as gingival index, probing depth and tooth mobility.…”

Betel Nut Chewing Decreased Calcaneus Ultrasound T-Score in a Large Taiwanese Population Follow-Up Study

“…Excess exposure to other betel nut components such as polyphenols and tannins also results in the generation of reactive oxygen species, leading to oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions in cardiovascular and other tissues [ 13 ]. Regarding the influence of betel nut chewing on bone, a clinical study of 114 participants revealed that betel quid chewing was associated with a decrease in radiographic alveolar bone density [ 14 ]. However, two in vivo studies showed that arecoline and phenolics could act as antioxidants and could ameliorate osteoporosis [ 15 , 16 ].…”

BactericidalActivity of Crevicular Polymorphonuclear Neutrophils in Chronic Periodontitis Patients and Healthy Subjects under the Influence of Areca Nut Extract: An In Vitro Study

“…In the past, investigations have been carried outto study the deleterious impact of areca nut on the gingival epithelium [9,10], fibroblast [11], and cementoblast [12]. Insults have also shown radiographic changes in oral bone tissues [13]. These findings led us to contemplate that areca nut usage couldcompromise gingival and periodontal health.…”

“…These findings led us to contemplate that areca nut usage couldcompromise gingival and periodontal health. Although periodontal disease is prevalent in areca nut chewerscompared to non-chewers [13], its exact mechanism is nevertheless not well understood.…”