Effects of Chronic Khat Use on Oral Health Status

Objectives: 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.
Methods: A narrative desk review that looked at published literature focusing on all aspects of oral health among chronic khat chewers
Results: The study 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 in more severe cases tooth loss. There was however no adequate evidence linking khat chewing to serious oral conditions such as oral cancer.
Conclusions: From the published work reviewed, chronic khat chewing appeared to have the potential to induce adverse effects on the oral mucosa and the periodontium.