Betel Quid and Oral Phenomenon: Current Review

AbstractPurpose of ReviewBetel quid chewing (BQC) is a traditional custom of masticating and spitting out a mixture of areca nut, betel leaves, and additives that is widely practiced particularly in South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Asia-Pacific region, and East Africa for centuries. This paper aims to present a current review of the oral phenomenon of BQC, alongside a view that contributes to our knowledge and a starting point for further research.Recent FindingsSeveral research indicate that BQC relates to oral malignancies, periodontal disorders, oral microbiome alterations, and other dentomaxillofacial disorders, as well as affecting general health. However, the findings are still indeterminate because of the vast variation in betel quid preparations, leading to a challenging determination of the exact effect of BQC and its mechanisms. Arecoline triggers a major detrimental effect while catechin and tannin contained in Piper betel act to neutralize the detrimental as well as carioprotective effect. Interestingly, despite the numerous research indicating the hazards of BQC, adults and young adults alike engage in this behavior since it is thought to offer numerous advantages and preserve the local tradition. The tradition is even popular on social media.SummaryBQC acted as a double-edged sword that causes pathologic and protective effects. Minor compounds in BQC behave as carioprotective agents while its major compound causes pathologic conditions through several pathways. P...
Source: Current Oral Health Reports - Category: Dentistry Source Type: research