​A new study published in Evidence-Based Dentistry suggests second-hand smoke could be linked to poor periodontal health in children.

In the UK, gum inflammation affects children of all ages, genders and backgrounds. A survey estimated that “46 per cent of eight-year-olds, 60 per cent of 12-year-olds, and 52 per cent of 15-year-olds” experience gum inflammation. The survey also noted that around “40 per cent of 15-year-olds” have gingivitis.

A cross-sectional review of eight studies suggested that children “from regions with higher prevalence of current smokers” had higher gingival index scores.

Overall the results of the meta-analysis suggested that children exposed to second-hand smoke (SHS) had higher gingival levels than those unexposed.

However, the researchers detected “no difference” when probing pocket depths between those exposed to second-hand smoke and those unexposed.

Manas Dave, lecturer in dental education at The University of Manchester, commented on the findings, “Further research is needed to determine the impact of SHS on oral health conditions. Despite this, dental professionals should continue to promote parental/guardian smoking cessation as there is evidence to suggest that SHS can cause serious health problems in children.”

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