The Study of Tobacco Effects on Oral Health

Abstract

Background: Tobacco use is one of the most significant threats to global health today. Derived from the Nicotianna plant, which is native to the Americas, tobacco was introduced to Europe following the discovery of America and later spread to Asia. Regardless of its method of consumption, tobacco poses serious health risks, with no safe level of use. It is a well-known risk factor for numerous systemic diseases and is strongly associated with various oral health issues, including dental caries, periodontal disease, soft tissue damage, and oral cancer.

Methods: This study is a review article conducted through reliable databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, and MDPI. Search terms such as "tobacco," "dental caries," "oral cancer," "SFR," and "smokeless tobacco" were used. Articles published in the year 2000 or later that met inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected for analysis.

Results: The findings revealed that tobacco users experience higher rates of dental caries and tooth loss compared to non-users. Smoking tobacco, in particular, significantly reduces salivary flow rate (xerostomia), leading to various other oral health complications. The review also established tobacco use as a key risk factor for oral cancer, contributing to the progression and worsening of conditions in cancer patients.

Conclusion: This review underscores the severe impact of tobacco use on oral health. In its many forms, tobacco is a leading cause of dental caries, tooth loss, and reduced salivary flow rate, which can lead to further oral health issues such as xerostomia. Additionally, tobacco use has been strongly linked to an increased risk of oral cancer and poorer outcomes in cancer patients. These findings highlight the urgent need for comprehensive public health efforts to reduce tobacco consumption and raise awareness of its harmful effects on both oral and systemic health.