Tobacco use has many affects on ones health. Tobacco use results in the greatest risk of cancer, lug disease and cardiovascular disease. 80%-90% of all lung cancer deaths and COPD deaths are caused by smoking. It is not just smoking that puts ones health at risk, smokeless tobacco users also have a greater risk of cardiovascular disease and they have a daytime heart attack rate that is twice that of non tobacco users. Smokeless tobacco use is also associated with pancreatic cancer. Smoking is associated with Alzheimer's disease as well as increased post-operative complications and ulcers.

Cigarette smoking and smokeless tobacco use result in oral lesions including oral cancer, periodontal (gum) disease, an increased risk of tooth decay, and tooth loss. Smokers experience more periodontal disease and more severe forms of periodontal disease than non smokers, and in young people it is a risk factor for aggressive destructive periodontal disease. To make matters worse the response to periodontal therapy is less favorable in smoker.

Smokeless tobacco is associated with an increase in tooth decay. Smokeless tobacco contains high levels of sugar and is typically held in one place for long periods of time. Smokers have an increase in tooth decay also due to a decrease in salivary flow (dryer mouth). And just think I haven't even mentioned what the staining does to the appearance of your teeth!

If you are a tobacco user smoker or smokeless there are many products that can help you quit! Your dentist can be a great resource for accessing these products as some require a prescription. They can also be a great source of support and encouragement. Many people make more than one attempt at quitting before they are successful so don't give up. Never quit quitting!