Effect of Smoking Cessation on Periodontal Healing Outcomes: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Smoking is a well-established risk factor for periodontal disease, adversely affecting healing and treatment outcomes. This study evaluated the impact of smoking cessation on periodontal healing over a 6-month follow-up. Study Design: A prospective observational study was conducted to evaluate the effect of smoking cessation on periodontal healing outcomes. Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out at the Department of Periodontology, Rehman College of Dentistry, Rehman Medical Institute (RMI), Hayatabad, Peshawar, from January to June 2024. Materials and Methods: A total of 260 patients enrolled in a structured smoking cessation program at RCD Peshawar. Demographic data, smoking history, and educational status were recorded. Periodontal parameters, including plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL), were assessed at baseline and 6 months. Compliance with cessation was monitored through self-report and, when feasible, biochemical validation. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests, chi-square tests, and multiple linear regression to identify predictors of healing outcomes. Results: Significant improvements were observed after cessation (PI: 2.1 ± 0.5 to 1.3 ± 0.4; GI: 2.4 ± 0.6 to 1.5 ± 0.5; PD: 4.8 ± 1.0 to 3.6 ± 0.8 mm; CAL: 5.0 ± 1.1 to 3.8 ± 0.9 mm; p<0.001). Patients with shorter smoking histories (1–5 years) achieved greater improvement (80%) compared with those with >10 years (58.3%). Regression analysis identified smoking duration, baseline PI, and baseline GI as significant negative predictors of periodontal healing (p<0.001). Conclusion: Smoking cessation leads to measurable improvements in periodontal health within 6 months, particularly among individuals with shorter smoking histories. The baseline periodontal condition and smoking duration strongly influence recovery, emphasising the need for early cessation programs.