Tobacco Stains Teeth and Damages Gums
Tobacco use is a major preventable cause of death. Beyond its social stigma, smoking can lead to oral cancer, impair the senses of smell and taste, hinder recovery after oral surgery, stain teeth, and increase the risk of gum disease. The American Dental Association (ADA) and all pediatric dentists strongly encourage children, adolescents, and adults to avoid all forms of tobacco use.
Most adult smokers started smoking before the age of nineteen. Individuals who avoid smoking throughout their teenage years are very unlikely to ever start. Therefore, it's crucial for parents to discourage tobacco use during preadolescence strongly and adolescence.
Is Smokeless Tobacco Less Dangerous For Teens?
Any form of tobacco use brings the mouth into direct contact with carcinogens (cancer-causing substances). These carcinogens and other harmful chemicals cause lasting damage to a child’s oral health.
Parents and teens often mistakenly believe that smokeless tobacco is a "safer" alternative. However, it has been proven to deliver a higher concentration of harmful substances into the body and is significantly more addictive. One pinch of smokeless tobacco can have the same nicotine content as sixty regular cigarettes. Additionally, smokeless tobacco can cause leukoplakia in the mouth, which are dangerous pre-cancerous lesions.
What Are The Signs Of Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer can be difficult to detect without a dentist's examination. In some cases, it may not be noticeable or painful until later stages. Parents of tobacco users should be aware of the following symptoms:
- Changes in how the teeth fit together.
- Difficulty moving the jaw.
- Mouth sores that do not heal.
- Numbness or tenderness in the mouth.
- Red or white patches on the cheek, lip, or tongue.
Oral cancer is treatable if detected early. Disfiguring surgery can often be avoided if the child abstains from tobacco use and has regular preventative dental checkups.
How Can I Stop My Child From Using Tobacco?
There are several effective ways to discourage children and adolescents from using tobacco products. Firstly, personally discussing the dangers of tobacco use with the child (or having the dentist do so) has proven to be an effective preventative strategy. Secondly, parents should set a positive example. Research shows that children of non-smokers are less likely to adopt this dangerous habit. Thirdly, closely monitor the child. If the child is uncooperative, screenings for tobacco use can be requested at the dental office.
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