The Impact of Tobacco on Oral Health
At Sky Pediatric Dentistry in Glasgow, KY, we are committed to educating families on the risks of tobacco use and its impact on oral health. Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in society, and it poses significant dangers to the health of children, adolescents, and adults alike. Smoking and smokeless tobacco can lead to oral cancer, weakened sense of taste and smell, slower recovery after oral surgery, stained teeth, and an increased risk of periodontal disease. The American Dental Association (ADA) and pediatric dentists everywhere strongly advise against tobacco use in all forms.
Why Tobacco Use is a Risk for Teens
Nearly all adult smokers first tried smoking before the age of nineteen. The likelihood of someone starting to smoke after their teenage years is slim. That’s why it is so crucial for parents to actively discourage tobacco use in preadolescents and adolescents. By preventing tobacco use at this critical time, parents can significantly reduce the chances of their child developing this harmful habit.
Is Smokeless Tobacco Safer for Teens?
Many believe that smokeless tobacco is a safer alternative, but this is a common misconception. In fact, smokeless tobacco delivers a higher concentration of harmful chemicals into the body and is even more addictive. One pinch of snuff has the same nicotine content as sixty regular cigarettes. Smokeless tobacco also causes leukoplakia, a pre-cancerous condition that can lead to oral cancer.
Signs of Oral Cancer to Watch for
Oral cancer is a serious consequence of tobacco use. Unfortunately, it is often difficult to detect without professional help. Many signs of oral cancer do not become visible or painful until the disease has reached an advanced stage. Parents of children who use tobacco should watch for the following symptoms:
- Changes in how the teeth fit together
- Difficulty moving the jaw
- Persistent mouth sores that don’t heal
- Numbness or tenderness in the mouth
- Red or white spots on the cheek, lip, or tongue
Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it’s important to get regular dental checkups to identify issues early and avoid disfiguring surgery.
How to Prevent Your Child From Using Tobacco
There are several effective ways to protect your child from using tobacco:
- Have a conversation: Discuss the dangers of tobacco use with your child. You can also ask your dentist to talk to your child about the risks.
- Set a good example: Children are less likely to smoke if their parents don’t smoke. Lead by example.
- Monitor your child: Stay involved and be aware of your child’s activities. If needed, request tobacco screenings at the dental office to help detect early signs.
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