Tobacco use is a leading preventable cause of death. Beyond its negative social implications, smoking can lead to oral cancer, impair the senses of smell and taste, complicate recovery after oral surgery, stain teeth, and increase the risk of periodontal disease. The American Dental Association (ADA) and all pediatric dentists urge children, adolescents, and adults to abstain from all forms of tobacco use.

Most adults who smoke began experimenting before the age of nineteen. An individual who avoids smoking throughout their teenage years is highly likely to remain tobacco-free for life. Therefore, it is essential for parents to discourage tobacco use during preadolescence strongly and adolescence.

Is Smokeless Tobacco Less Dangerous for Teens?

Any form of tobacco use exposes the oral cavity directly to carcinogens (cancer-causing agents). These carcinogens and other harmful chemicals can cause irreversible damage to a child’s oral health.

Parents and teenagers often mistakenly perceive smokeless tobacco as the “safer” alternative. However, research has shown that smokeless tobacco delivers a higher concentration of harmful substances into the body and is significantly more addictive. A single dip of snuff can contain approximately the same amount of nicotine as sixty regular cigarettes. Furthermore, smokeless tobacco can cause leukoplakias in the mouth, which are dangerous precancerous lesions.

What Are The Signs Of Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer can be challenging to detect without a professional dental examination. In some instances, oral cancer may not present noticeable symptoms or pain until its later stages. Parents of tobacco users should be vigilant for the following signs:

Changes in the way the teeth fit together when biting.
Difficulty opening or closing the jaw.
Persistent mouth sores that fail to heal.
Numbness or unusual tenderness in the mouth.
Red or white patches on the inner cheeks, lips, or tongue.

Oral cancer is treatable with early detection. Disfiguring surgery can often be avoided if the child refrains from tobacco use and attends regular preventative dental checkups.

How Can I Stop My Child From Using Tobacco?

Several strategies can effectively discourage children and adolescents from using tobacco products. Firstly, having an open and honest conversation with your child about the dangers of tobacco use (or enlisting the dentist to do so) has proven to be an effective preventative measure. Secondly, parents should lead by example by being tobacco-free themselves. Studies indicate that children of non-smokers are less likely to adopt this harmful habit. Thirdly, maintain close supervision of your child. If your child is unwilling to cooperate, screenings for tobacco use can be requested at the dental office.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s potential or current tobacco use, please reach out to your pediatric dentist.