Knowledge and awareness of Libyan dental patients regarding the adverse effects of tobacco smoking on oral health

Abstract

Background: Tobacco smoking and periodontitis are still major public health problems. The role of tobacco smoking in the progression and severity of periodontal diseases has been emphasized. The current study aimed to investigate the awareness and knowledge of dental patients regarding the adverse effects of tobacco smoking on “oral and periodontal health” in Benghazi, Libya. Materials and Methods: ‘’A cross-sectional study” was undertaken in several dental practices. The study involved 179 participants which Comprised of 48 smokers and 131 non-smokers. Participants were interviewed and inquired to answer a questionnaire related to awareness and knowledge about the adverse effects of tobacco smoking on oral health. Results: Significantly higher percentages of non-smokers were conscious about the adverse effects of tobacco smoking on oral health (p=0.002), whereas no statistically significant differences were found among male and female participants, although females were more conscious about the adverse effects of tobacco smoking on oral health. Conclusions: The results of the current study reveal that non-smokers have significantly more knowledge about the adverse effects of tobacco smoking on “oral and periodontal health” when compared to smokers. “Smoking cessation” should be an integral part of periodontal treatment and dental professionals can offer “smoking cessation” counseling to their patients and support them to quit tobacco smoking.