Abstract
Objectives: Tobacco consumption is of major concern for public health. Compromised oral hygiene accentuated by tobacco leads to alteration in the oral mucosa and microbiome, including
Candida
, and its species can be identified rapidly using CHROMagar. Curcumin, a naturally available compound possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-carcinogenic, anti-fungal, and immunomodulatory properties. Hence, a comprehensive study was planned. Aim: To evaluate and compare cytomorphometric analysis and
Candida
colonization and speciation in tobacco users before and after the use of curcumin gel. Materials and Methods: The study comprised a total of 120 participants (the study (tobacco habit) group, n = 60 and control (healthy) group, n = 60). The intervention was the application of curcumin gel over the lesion area three times daily for 2 months. All participants’ oral health status was assessed, followed by cytomorphometric analysis and
Candida
colonization and speciation using CHROMagar. Results: Cytomorphometric analysis showed statistically significant differences in the control and study group for cell diameter (CD), nuclear diameter (ND), CD:ND ratio, and micronuclei (
p
= 0.0001).
Candida
colonization had a significantly higher number of colonies in the habit group when compared to the control group.
Candida tropicalis
was predominant in the study group, whereas
Candida albicans
was predominant in the control group. In the study group, after intervention with curcumin, a statistically significant difference was seen in nuclear diameter, CD:ND ratio, and micronuclei. There was a reduction in the number of
Candida
colonies, and
Candida albicans
was the predominant species observed in the study group after the intervention of curcumin and discontinuation of habit. Conclusion: Curcumin was found to reduce the number of micronuclei and also decreased
Candida
colonization, along with the discontinuation of habit in tobacco users.