related: smoking / oral cancer / squamous-cell carcinoma

Generally by the first month of use, the inside surfaces of the lips and gums (in contact with the tobacco) have already begun to undergo cellular changes. In fact, it’s recommended that chewing tobacco users should see their dentist every three months for an oral cancer screening.

Studies have found that between 60% to 78% of users over 5-years have precancerous oral lesions. Long-term snuff users have a 50% greater risk of developing oral cancer than non-users.

Safer Than Smoking?

No. It's actually more addictive because it contains higher levels of nicotine than cigarettes. It's usually harder to quit than cigarettes. Younger adults and adolescents who use chewing tobacco related products are 4 to 6 times more likely to develop oral cancer within five year of regular use.

Toxic substances in smokeless tobacco are absorbed through the tissues of the mouth and into the body. These substances include:

• Cadmium
• Formaldehyde
• Lead
• Nicotine
• Uranium 235

Effects on Oral Health

Abrasion - Abrasive compounds present in smokeless tobacco products scratch teeth by wearing away the enamel. Loss of tooth enamel often leads to heightened sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures and air stimulation.

Bad Breath - Stained teeth and bad breath commonly occur.

Nicotine Dependence - Nicotine use increases both heart rate and blood pressure by constricting blood vessels. Athletic performance and cardiovascular endurance are decreased.

Gum Disease - Smokeless tobacco is highly irritating to the gums; its constant presence can result in permanent damage to the gum tissues. The gums actually pull away from the teeth, exposing roots and causing pain, sensitivity, and eventual bone and tooth loss.

Oral Cancer - Usually preceded by leukoplakia, or a localized area of white leathery-looking tissue that does not rub off. Leukoplakia usually presents as a painless lesion that forms on the bottom surfaces of the tongue and/ or the inside surfaces of the cheek. The lesions are white or slightly grayish, with a thickened surface which cannot be rubbed or wiped off. Leukoplakia is generally considered a precancerous condition (in many cases it will revert back to health upon habit cessation.)  It results in cancer in 3 to 5% of reported cases.

Cancer Of The Larynx, Pharynx And Esophagus - Smokeless tobacco contains high levels of cancer causing substances called nitrosamines, which have been shown to increase the occurrence of throat cancer.

Recession - The constant irritation of smokeless tobacco to a particular spot in the mouth results in permanent damage to adjacent periodontal tissue which eventually leads to bone and tooth loss.

Taste Alteration - Chewing tobacco use decreases the sense of taste and smell. As a result, users tend to prefer foods with a higher salt and sugar content.

Tooth Decay - Smokeless tobacco contains sugar which is used by bacteria found naturally in the mouth, promoting acid formation which leads to decay.

Other Cancers - All forms of smokeless tobacco contain high concentrations of cancer causing agents. These substances increase cancer risk not only to the mouth, but also to the esophagus, pharynx, and larynx.

Smokeless Tobacco Effects on General Health

• Withdrawal symptoms ranging from headaches, moodiness, and problems concentrating when you try to quit
• Increased blood pressure and heart rate
• A greater risk of heart attack
• Cancer that can be fatal

Signs & Symptoms of Oral Cancer

If you use smokeless tobacco, or have in the past, be aware of any changes in your mouth, particularly the following early signs of oral cancer:

• A feeling of something in the throat
• Difficulty in chewing
• Prolonged sore throat
• Restricted movement of the tongue or jaws
• Red irritated area of more than 2 weeks duration
• Sore that does not heal
• White patch that does not rub off

The most common early sign of cancer in smokeless tobacco users is leukoplakia. It typically presents as a white scaly patch or lesion inside the mouth or lips that cannot be rubbed off. Red sores, or erythroplakia, are also a warning sign of cancer. Precancerous lesions often go undetectable. If you've noticed a white or red sore that doesn't heal, see your dentist immediately for a test to see if it's precancerous. Your dentists can diagnose and treat such cases before the condition develops into oral cancer. Please note that pain is rarely an early symptom.

Your dentist can help you kick your chewing tobacco habit. In addition to just treating the negative effects of tobacco use, your dentist can help you kick the habit. Your dentist may prescribe a variety of nicotine replacement therapies, such as transdermal nicotine patchs. It’s recommended that chewing tobacco users see their dentist every three months for an oral cancer screening.

Note: It is important to note that before beginning any course of treatment you should see your dentist. Please note that without the benefit of a full dental examination, including a review of medical history, dental x-rays, and diagnostic aids, no attempt can be made to provide specific diagnosis or recommended courses of treatment. However, we will be happy to update our site to include topics you feel deserve mention. contact us

Home |About Us | Services | Patient Education | Smile Evaluator | Oral Health Plans | Contact Us

© 2002-2003 dentalvenue.com