Consumption of tobacco and its impact on oral health: A review

Abstract

Introduction: There is clinical evidence that the use of tobacco- smokeless and smoked- has an adverse effect on oral health.Numerous studies have shown that tobacco use would lead to an increased incidence and severity of periodontal diseases and a higher rate of tooth loss.

Materials and Methods:Saliva is the first biological fluid that is subjected to cigarette smoke, which contains numerous toxic substances. These substances are responsible for structural and functional changes in saliva, that may lead to an altered Salivary Flow Rate(SFR).

Conclusion:Tobacco use has been known to be closely linked with periodontal diseases, dental implant failure, oral cancers, and the development of precancerous lesions.

Advising and counselling the patients to quit tobacco use is our responsibility as dental healthcare professionals, and the dentists can play a very crucial role in Tobacco Cessation Counselling