Caries risk assessment using Cariogram model among smokeless tobacco users in India

BACKGROUND: Smokeless tobacco forms are known to have fermentable sugar compounds which may strengthen the development of cariogenic microbes. In addition, cervical abrasion of teeth occur at the site of tobacco pouch placement. These components may assume an essential role in caries advancement in smokeless tobacco users. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to assess caries risk among smokeless tobacco users using Cariogram model. METHODS: A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted among 50 smokeless tobacco users of Udaipur for 3 months. Caries risk assessment was done by employing a proforma survey based on the Cariogram Model. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Chi-square test and Stepwise multiple linear regression with 95% confidence interval and 5% significance level. RESULTS: The majority of the smokeless tobacco users (46%) were found to be in the “Moderate” Streptococcus mutans count category and portrayed “Moderate” plaque amount score (82%). Smokeless tobacco users (34%) depicted a higher caries risk profile than the control group (6%) utilizing the Cariogram model. CONCLUSION: Cariogram model could be a useful tool to represent caries risk among smokeless tobacco users.