ABSTRACT
Objective: This study aimed to assess the effect of passive tobacco smoking (PTS) through the comparison of the
periodontal status and the C-reactive protein (CRP) and cotinine levels in the biologic fluids in children who are
exposed and unexposed to PTS. Methods: A total of 148 participants, whom had smokers (PTS-exposed, n=82)
and non-smokers (PTS-unexposed, n=66) in their families, respectively, were included in the study. Gingival
index, plaque index, probing depth, and bleeding on probing were recorded. Moreover, saliva, urine, and gingival
crevicular fluid samples were collected. CRP and cotinine levels in the biological fluids were determined by the
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Results: Both groups exhibited similar values for periodontal
parameters and salivary CRP levels were higher in PTS-exposed group but not significant. The mean urinary
cotinine level was significantly higher in children exposed to PTS than in unexposed children. Conclusions: There
was no evidence for causative role of PTS in periodontal disease in this study. Longitudinal studies including
large populations should be conducted to provide stronger evidence for the causative role of PTS in periodontal
disease. Also, further epidemiological studies on the social context of smoking should be performed to improve
the quality of life and lifespan of the society