The Relationship Between Smoking Habits and Ohi-S Scores of Asmat Students at Wisma 2 Hasanuddin University Makassar

Abstract

Background: Smoking is a high-risk behavior that affects oral health, particularly by increasing plaque and calculus formation. The accumulation of debris and calculus contributes to higher Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified (OHI-S) scores, which reflect an individual’s oral hygiene status. Students who smoke tend to have poorer oral hygiene due to exposure to cigarette smoke, changes in saliva, and low awareness of oral health maintenance. Objective:This study aims to determine the relationship between smoking habits and OHI-S scores among Asmat students residing in the Hasanuddin University dormitory. Methods. This analytical study employed a cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of 73 Asmat students selected through a total sampling technique. Data were collected using a smoking habit questionnaire and OHI-S examination based on the Greene & Vermillion index. Data were analyzed using the Chi-Square test with a significance level of 0.05. Results:The findings showed a significant relationship between smoking habits and OHI-S scores (p < 0.05). Respondents who were active smokers tended to have moderate to poor OHI-S scores compared to non- smokers.Conclusion: There is a significant association between smoking habits and oral hygiene status based on OHI-S scores. Smoking contributes to increased plaque and calculus accumulation. Therefore, structured education concerning the impact of smoking on oral health and the improvement of oral hygiene behaviors is strongly recommended for student smokers.