Introduction

Tobacco use has been prevalent for thousands of years- and it certainly hasn’t declined in recent times. As of 2020, almost one and a half billion people regularly smoke tobacco products! However, just because it’s popular, the harms are often overlooked. While many people are aware of the general health risks associated with smoking, such as lung cancer and heart disease, fewer understand the specific impacts on oral health.

 The harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine on oral health are mainly due to the presence of carcinogens and other toxic chemicals. These substances damage the tissues in the mouth, reducing blood flow and impairing the immune response. This makes it harder for the body to fight off infections and heal wounds, leading to inflammation and an increased risk of cancer. Nicotine, in particular, constricts blood vessels, limiting the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the gums and other oral tissues. This exacerbates gum disease and can lead to tooth loss.

We’ll be going over how different forms of smoking and tobacco use, including cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, e-cigarettes, and cannabis, affect oral health. Considering the risks, it’s best to be as informed as possible. As such, this article gives a detailed breakdown of how different forms of carcinogens affect oral heath. Finally, we’ll review the best ways to avoid the potential harm.

Types of Tobacco and Smoking

1. Cigarettes

Cigarette smoking is one of the most prevalent forms of tobacco consumption globally. Cigarettes contain harmful substances such as nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide, which not only damage the lungs but also have severe consequences for oral health. The widespread availability and usage of cigarettes make them a significant public health issue.  Millions are put at risk for smoking-related diseases. Smoking cigarettes causes significant staining and discoloration of teeth due to the tar and nicotine present in tobacco.

Furthermore, cigarette smoking increases the risk of gum disease and periodontal disease. The different chemicals in cigarettes weaken the immune response, making it harder for the gums to heal and fight off infections. Additionally, smokers are more likely to experience gum recession, tooth loss, and chronic bad breath (halitosis). If that wasn’t enough, smoking delays healing after dental procedures, complicating oral health management.

2. Smokeless Tobacco

Smokeless tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco, are also popular, with millions of adults chewing tobacco in the US alone. These products are placed directly in the mouth, where the tobacco is absorbed through the oral tissues. Despite the absence of smoke, which comes with its own problems, these products are far from beneficial. They contain high levels of nicotine and other harmful chemicals that pose serious risks to oral health.

Using smokeless tobacco products greatly increases the risk of oral cancer, particularly in the areas where the tobacco is placed in the mouth. To put it into perspective, almost 90% of people with oral cancer are tobacco users. These products contain carcinogens which can cause cancer of the lips, cheeks, gums, and tongue. Smokeless tobacco, like smoking, can also lead to gum recession and periodontal disease.

The constant exposure to tobacco irritates the gums, causing them to pull away from the teeth and form pockets where bacteria can thrive. Additionally, many smokeless tobacco products contain added sugars, which contribute to tooth decay and cavities. The abrasive nature of chewing tobacco will also end up causing wear and damage to teeth.

3. Electronic Cigarettes (E-Cigarettes) and Vaping

E-cigarettes or vapes have gained popularity, especially among newer generations. These devices heat a liquid (e-liquid) that usually contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals to produce an aerosol that users inhale. Although they’re often marketed as a safer alternative to traditional smoking, these products still pose significant health risks, including those affecting oral health.

While e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco, they still expose users to nicotine, which is highly addictive and harmful to oral health. The long-term effects of vaping are not yet fully understood due to its relatively recent emergence. However, studies suggest that vaping can lead to gum inflammation and irritation. Not only that, but studies have shown that vaping comes with an increased risk of periodontal disease and cavities. The chemicals in e-liquids, such as propylene glycol and glycerin, can dry out the mouth and reduce saliva production, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

4. Smoking Cannabis

While cannabis smoking doesn’t contain nicotine and is significantly less carcinogenic, there are still potential health concerns. As cannabis legalization spreads, its use has become more common. Cannabis can be smoked in various forms, such as joints, blunts, pipes, and bongs. While often perceived as less harmful than tobacco, smoking cannabis can also have negative effects on oral health. The heat and smoke, along with carcinogens, can lead to a variety of oral health issues.

Smoking cannabis can cause dry mouth, which reduces saliva production and increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Saliva is absolutely critical for neutralizing acids in the mouth and washing away food particles and bacteria. Lacking this, the mouth becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, leading to oral health problems. Additionally, cannabis smokers may experience gum disease due to the inflammatory effects of smoke on the gums.

Cannabis use is also associated with an increased risk of oral infections and lesions. The heat from smoking cannabis can irritate the oral tissues, leading to sores and ulcers. Beyond this, smoking cannabis often involves combining it with tobacco in blunts, exposing users to the harmful effects of both substances.

Prevention and Cessation

With the source of the oral issues out of the way, it’s time to go over how to avoid or abate those results. Of course, the best way to avoid any medical complications is to quit tobacco use entirely. Quitting smoking and tobacco use offers numerous health benefits, including improved oral health. The risk of gum disease, oral cancer, and other dental issues decreases significantly after quitting.

Moreover, quitting can improve the appearance of teeth, reduce bad breath, and enhance the overall quality of life. While this might be easier said than done, there are a broad number of strategies to help individuals quit smoking and tobacco use Support systems such as counseling can provide the motivation and guidance needed to quit. Additionally, nicotine replacement therapies can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.

In lieu of these options, regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial for smokers and tobacco users. Dentists can monitor for early signs of oral cancer, gum disease, and other issues, providing important treatments to prevent complications. Specific oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash, can help prevent some of the damage caused by smoking. Additionally, dentists can offer personalized advice and support to help patients quit smoking and maintain good oral health.

Conclusion

The harmful effects of tobacco and smoking on oral health are clearly impactful to day-to-day life. Even more than that, oral cancers can lead to incredibly serious medical complications. Cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, e-cigarettes, and cannabis all pose significant risks to the teeth, gums, and overall oral cavity. Adopting healthier habits, seeking professional help for quitting, and keeping in contact with your dentist are all excellent steps toward improvement. Keeping up active mitigation against the harms of smoking and tobacco will improve your health, happiness, and overall quality of life.

Knoxville Family Dental is your home for advice on how the substances and products you consume can impact your dental health. We provide excellent dental care to all of your family to help you achieve the great dental health you deserve. Schedule an appointment with us today!