Effects of chronic khat use on oral health status

Abstract

Background: The habit of khat chewing is common in many East African and Middle Eastern cultures and is slowly spreading to other parts of the world. Fresh leaves and twigs of the khat plant are chewed for various reasons, the main one being the stimulating amphetamine-like effects it induces among users. There is growing evidence linking chronic khat use to various medical and oral conditions. Objectives: The review aimed to provide a summary of information drawn from various studies focusing on effects of chronic khat use on oral health, with special focus on dental hard tissues, the oral mucosa and the periodontium. Methodology: This was a narrative desk review that looked at published literature focusing on aspects of oral health among khat chewers. Results: The review revealed scientific evidence that chronic khat use was associated with adverse oral conditions such as oral mucosal white lesions, gum recession, periodontal pocketing and gum bleeding. There was also adequate research evidence linking chronic khat chewing to dental discoloration, excessive tooth wear and even tooth loss. There was however no adequate evidence linking khat chewing to serious oral conditions such as oral cancer. Conclusion: From the published work reviewed here, chronic khat chewing appeared to have the potential to induce adverse effects on the oral mucosa and the periodontium.