Correlation of environmental tobacco smoke to gingival pigmentation and salivary alpha amylase in young adults

OBJECTIVE Passive smoking leads to melanin pigmentation on gingiva. However, documentation of gingival pigmentation and salivary amylase activity in passive smokers relative to the duration of exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), is incomplete and requires further investigation. Thus, this study aimed to assess effects of ETS exposure on gingival pigmentation in young adults. In addition, to correlate a number of years of exposure to an extent, the intensity of gingival pigmentation and salivary amylase activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 200 nonsmokers aged 18-35 years with a positive history of ETS exposure were recruited for the study. Duration and source of ETS were assessed using a questionnaire. Gingival pigmentation was assessed using gingival pigmentation index for the extent and Dummett oral pigmentation index for intensity. The skin color of all patients was also assessed. Pearson Chi-square test and one-way ANOVA was used to statistically analyze the data. RESULTS Number of years of exposure to passive smoking was highly significant to the extent and intensity of gingival pigmentation (P < 0.001). ETS from home environment was highly significant to the intensity of pigmentation. Environmental sources of ETS contributed to pigmentation as the majority of patients reported exposure from vehicles and workplace. The salivary amylase levels were inversely proportional to the duration of exposure to ETS. CONCLUSION Within limitations of this cross-sectional observational study, it was concluded that there was a strong correlation between ETS exposure and gingival pigmentation. Duration of exposure was significant to an extent, the intensity of pigmentation and salivary amylase activity.