Quit Smoking”, “don’t make an ash of yourself”, “Don’t be wacko stop tobacco”, “Drugs pull you down six feet underground” Blah Blah Blah…… lots of slogans, posters, advertisements, flyers, even theatres, and movies tends to endorse against tobacco usage, but nobody seems to care. Somewhere alongside the banks of a river or in a mushy street, the leaves are kept in the basket alongside burning coal most of the times covered with a dry or wet cloth to retain its moisture “Bete se zyada sambhal kar rakhte hai ise” says a paanwala where people spitting blood-red betel juice into an elegantly designed brass spittoon. With increasing globalization, there seems to be an increase in tobacco consumption.
How does Tobacco affect your oral health?
Tobacco is a plant that contains highly addictive stimulant alkaloid nicotine. Dried tobacco leaves are used in many forms such as smoking in cigarettes, cigars, bidis, and electric cigarettes, chewing tobacco in the form of Gutka and chunna, dipping tobacco, and snus (a powder which is kept between lower lip and gums). When the tobacco leaves are smoked, nicotine enters the bloodstream through the mouth nose and lungs and from here to the brain. Nicotine hereby exhibits its physostimulating action in the brain which results in the release of dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with the feeling of pleasure. The effects range from mild stimulation to relaxation depending on the amount of consumption. Addiction of tobacco leads to life-threatening chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, malignancy of lungs, mouth, and throat, congenital defects in the newborn if the mother continues consuming tobacco during pregnancy.
The Harmful Effects of Tobacco on Oral Health
1. Oral Cancer
One of the most severe consequences of tobacco use is oral cancer. The chemicals in tobacco damage the cells in the mouth, leading to mutations that can develop into cancerous growths. Symptoms include persistent mouth sores, red or white patches, difficulty swallowing, and unexplained bleeding. Early detection is crucial, and regular dental check-ups at Pathak Dental Clinic with Dr. Manish Pathak can help identify early warning signs.
2. Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
Tobacco weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections, including gum disease. Periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease, causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, leading to bone loss and, eventually, tooth loss. Symptoms include swollen gums, bad breath, and bleeding while brushing or flossing.
3. Tooth Decay and Staining
Smoking and chewing tobacco contribute to plaque buildup, which erodes the enamel, causing cavities. The tar and nicotine in tobacco stain teeth, turning them yellow or brown over time. No amount of brushing can remove these deep stains, but professional cleaning at Pathak Dental Clinic can restore your smile.
4. Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Tobacco dries out the mouth, reducing saliva production. Saliva is essential for washing away bacteria, so without it, harmful bacteria thrive, leading to chronic bad breath.
5. Delayed Healing After Dental Procedures
For tobacco users, wounds take longer to heal after dental procedures like extractions, implants, or gum surgeries. This increases the risk of complications, infections, and implant failures.
Seeking Help from the Best Dentist Near You
If you or a loved one use tobacco, it’s never too late to quit and protect your oral health. Regular dental visits play a vital role in detecting early signs of damage and preventing severe complications. Searching for a dentist near me? Visit Pathak Dental Clinic, where Dr. Manish Pathak offers expert guidance and treatments for maintaining optimal oral health.
Final Thoughts
Tobacco use is a silent destroyer of oral health. From bad breath and stained teeth to life-threatening diseases like oral cancer, its impact is severe. The good news is that quitting tobacco can significantly improve oral and overall health. If you’re experiencing any symptoms or want to take preventive steps, schedule an appointment at Pathak Dental Clinic with Dr. Manish Pathak today.
Your smile is worth it. Take action now and protect your oral health for a healthier, happier future!
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