Background: Gingival hyperpigmentation refers to the color of gingiva which is primarily influenced by melanin deposition in the basal and suprabasal layers of the epithelium and various other exogenous and endogenous factors. Smoking is a well-established extrinsic factor contributing to increased melanin production and thus gingival hyperpigmentation, a condition commonly termed as “smokers melanosis” Despite its clinical relevance, limited comparative data exists evaluating gingival pigmentation among smokers and non-smokers. This study aims to assess the prevalence and severity of gingival melanin pigmentation among smokers and non-smokers.

Materials and methods: In this comparative cross-sectional study 100 adults aged 18 years and above were divided equally into two groups: Smokers (Group I) and Non-smokers (Group II). Gingival pigmentation was assessed int the anterior labial region of the gingiva using the Dummet-Gupta Oral Pigmentation Index (DOPI). Data was analyzed using statistical tests.

Results: Smokers (Group I) demonstrated a higher prevalence and severity of gingival pigmentation compared to Non-smokers (Group II). The mean DOPI scores were [1.252 ±0.743] in smokers and [0.376 ± 0.425] in non-smokers, with a statistically significant difference (p<0.0001).

Conclusion: Smoking is significantly associated with increased gingival melanin pigmentation. The findings highlight the need for awareness regarding the oral effects of tobacco use. Statistical data reveal a clear association between smoking habits and oral pigmentation changes. Indivisuals with longer duration and higher frequency of smoking tend to exhibit greater intensity of pigmentation that suggests a dose dependent relationship.