The Impact of Smoking on the Progression and Management of Periodontal Disease

Abstract

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the supporting structures of the teeth and is significantly influenced by modifiable risk factors, among which smoking plays a prominent role. Although the detrimental effects of smoking on periodontal health are well-documented, the specific impact of smoking intensity—measured as the number of cigarettes smoked per day—remains less clearly defined. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the influence of smoking intensity on the progression and clinical management of periodontal disease by comparing periodontal health parameters among three groups: heavy smokers (>10 cigarettes/day), light smokers (<10 cigarettes/day), and non-smokers. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on a sample of 226 adult patients from Timișoara, Romania. Each participant underwent a comprehensive full-mouth periodontal examination assessing key parameters, including probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and bleeding on probing (BoP). Additionally, participants completed a standardized questionnaire documenting demographic data, smoking habits, and general health status. Statistical analysis involved one-way ANOVA and Hochberg GT2 post hoc tests to identify significant differences across groups. Results: The findings revealed a clear dose-dependent relationship between smoking intensity and periodontal disease severity. Heavy smokers exhibited the most severe periodontal deterioration, with significantly greater mean PPD and CAL compared to both light smokers and non-smokers (p < 0.001). Light smokers also presented significantly worse clinical outcomes than non-smokers (p < 0.01). Interestingly, non-smokers displayed a higher incidence of bleeding on probing, likely due to smoking’s vasoconstrictive effects masking inflammatory signs. Conclusions: This study demonstrates a strong, dose-dependent negative impact of smoking on periodontal health. Even light smoking is associated with clinically significant periodontal damage, reinforcing the notion that there is no safe level of tobacco exposure for periodontal tissues. These results highlight the critical need for integrating smoking cessation programs into periodontal disease prevention and management strategies.