7 Harmful Effects of Smokeless Tobacco on Mouth Health

It’s believed that smokeless tobacco is safer for teeth than cigarettes or marijuana. People think that since using smokeless tobacco doesn’t involve inhaling smoke, it won’t harm dental health. However, smokeless tobacco is actually as harmful as smoking cigarettes. 

When using smokeless tobacco, people place it between their cheek and gum to let the juice of tobacco be absorbed into the body. This means that tobacco is in direct contact with soft tissue for long periods of time. This type of tobacco use can result in severe diseases as well. 

While cigarette smoking process lasts on average for two to three minutes, people who use smokeless tobacco usually keep it in their mouth for thirty minutes or more at a time. This is at least three times as long as the normal cigarette takes to smoke. So, what can smokeless tobacco do to your dental health? Let’s review the most common harmful effects of this product: 

1. Loss of taste 

Loss of taste is a common side effect of using smokeless tobacco since taste buds will be affected. This means that foods and tastes you enjoy will no longer provide you pleasure. 

2. Teeth staining 

Since your teeth are often in direct contact with smokeless tobacco, this will cause teeth staining and bad breath since the tobacco juice leaves between your teeth even after brushing. Stains appear due to the accumulation of small particles in microscopic pores in the tooth enamel and become darker and harder to remove over time.

3. Leukoplakia 

Leukoplakia is a condition in which white patches occur on the gums or inner cheeks. Unlike thrush and lichen planus, leukoplakia can develop into oral cancer. In fact, 3% to 17.5% of people with the disorder will get squamous cell carcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common types of skin cancer that affects approximately 115 people every hour all over the world.  

4. Gum recession

Being exposed to tobacco for long periods of time, gums begin to recede and bleed which eventually leads to many dental issues, including tooth loss. If you already experience a gum recession, consult a tooth surgeon who will correct this problem.

5. Accelerated tooth decay 

Constant exposure to smokeless tobacco will provoke accelerated tooth decay. Although tooth decay can be easily treated, accelerated decay can damage teeth quicker than usual and get the pulp and provoke pulpitis. Pulpitis is a more serious problem that requires removal of the tooth nerve. A tooth without a nerve is more prone to infections and injuries.  

6. Gum disease

Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is a serious dental condition that destroys the soft tissue and can cause damage to the tooth-supporting bone if left untreated. Gum disease is one of the most common reasons for tooth loss. The use of smokeless tobacco can provoke gum disease, so, if you notice gum bleeding after brushing or flossing, gum recession, and loose teeth, visit a dentist as soon as possible. The condition requires extensive treatment to cure.

7. Cancer  

There are several cancers that are linked to the use of smokeless tobacco. These include cancers of the gums, esophagus, throat, tongue, and voice box. Unfortunately, many of these cancers can be deadly. Regular dental visits, proper oral hygiene, and reduction of smokeless tobacco use will help you lower your risks for cancer. 

Currently, dentists can stop tooth deterioration and gum disease and identify early signs of cancers. They are able to restore your teeth while you’re in the quitting process and help you prevent tooth and gum damage.

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