Tobacco Usage and Gum Disease

Whether you smoke or chew tobacco, you increase your risk of gum disease. "...17.6 percent of current or former cigar or pipe smokers had moderate to severe periodontitis - nearly three times the percent of non-smokers. In addition, they averaged four missing teeth," according to the American Academy of Periodontology. The group also reports that periodontitis (gum disease) is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Gum disease doesn't simply affect the gums; it also damages deeper connective tissue, the jaw bone, and the teeth. The first signs of gum disease are generally bad breath and bleeding gums. These are caused by gingivitis, the earliest and most treatable stage of gum disease.

Left untreated, gingivitis becomes Early Periodontitis. At this stage gums begin to recede and connective tissue damage occurs. Jaw bone loss may also begin.

From there it advances to Moderate Periodontitis. In addition to jaw bone loss, pockets or abscesses from in the gums. Teeth might begin to shift from less connective tissue and jaw bone support.

The final stage is Advanced Periodontitis, which causes profound jaw bone loss, tooth loss, and more painful gums.

Smoking plays a role in gum disease because it contributes to the disease's development on many levels. Smoking irritates and inflames the gums; inflammation is what causes the breakdown of gum integrity. Once the bond between the gums and teeth is compromised, food and foreign substances can get below the gum line. This causes plaque buildup, bacteria growth, and further damage to the gum and tooth connection.

Chewing tobacco causes inflammation directly to the spot where you place the chew, as well as to the rest of the gums due to the irritants being carried in your saliva to other areas. After the gums pull away from the teeth the tobacco particles from the product can get below the gum line, where it contributes to plaque buildup and damage to the deeper connective tissues. The best way to reverse all of the damage caused by tobacco is to stop using tobacco products.

Since this isn't always an option individuals are willing to follow, the next best thing to do is practice meticulous oral hygiene. Flossing daily and brushing teeth twice daily are the minimum hygiene requirements. Brushing or using a mouth rinse after each use of tobacco will greatly reduce the negative effects of tobacco. Regular dental visits are essential for early identification of gum disease. Twice a year dental cleanings also help prevent plaque buildup and inflammation.

Overview of gum disease
Tobacco use and gum disease
American Dental Association