Betel Quid

Smokeless Tobacco

There are a variety of types of smoke less tobacco including a type called betel quid. It is also called gutka, ghutka, or gutkha and dip. While some individuals may think that betel quid does not have negative consequences to your oral health, in fact research suggests that there are multiple negative consequences to this type of tobacco. 

Betel quid is a combination of betel leaf, areca nut, and slaked lime. In some countries individuals combine these ingredients with tobacco. There may also be other ingredients and flavorings added to this such as spices and sweeteners.

"No matter what is added there are consequences to individuals who use betel quid," says Dr. Rice. It has been tied to a variety of cancers including esophagus cancer and other oral cancers. The tobacco can cause white lesions in the mouth called leukoplakia.  These white spots do not come off when you brush.

An individual may also develop OSF, or Oral submucous fibrosis. If you have this condition you may notice a precancerous lesion that hardens the soft pink tissue that lines the inside of the mouth. Dr. Denine Rice says, "The lesion can impact your ability to open your mouth and may require surgery in order to cut the bands."

Some individuals say they use betel quid as a way to relax, unfortunately this substance when used is not a healthy habit. Once it is placed in the mouth and between the lips, the toxic substance mixes with your saliva and negatively impacts your health. While the cancerous lesions start in the mouth, they can quickly spread to other parts of your body.