World No Tobacco Day 2024: Beware of the hidden dangers of tobacco chewing, its impact on oral health

World No Tobacco Day 2024: Chewing tobacco irritates the gums, causing inflammation and bleeding. This can progress to periodontitis, a severe gum infection that damages the bone supporting the teeth and can lead to tooth loss (Image: Canva)

Apart from the widely known links between tobacco use and different illnesses, including cardiovascular issues and respiratory conditions, the use of cigarettes, smokeless tobacco (such as chewing tobacco and snus), and other forms of tobacco can lead to specific oral health problems. These may include oral cancer, oral mucosal lesions, periodontal disease, implant failure, salivary gland hypofunction, dental caries, and numerous other oral diseases and conditions.

Despite being perceived as a less harmful alternative to smoking, chewing tobacco presents a number of dangers that demand attention and action. According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey India 2016-17, 29 percent of Indian adults consume tobacco. Chewing tobacco, found in products like gutka, khaini, and betel quid, is often seen as a less harmful alternative. However, it poses a serious threat to oral health, affecting millions of Indians.

Chewing tobacco contains a plethora of harmful chemicals, including nicotine, a highly addictive substance.  According to Dr Jimmy Dadhaniya MD, DNB (Medical Oncology & Hematology) Consultant, Medical Oncologist, Sterling Hospitals, the constant contact of these chemicals with oral tissues leads to a multitude of oral health problems.

Dr Dadhaniya highlights the various oral health problems caused by tobacco use and suggests strategies to address them:

Gum disease: Chewing tobacco irritates the gums, causing inflammation and bleeding. This can progress to periodontitis, a severe gum infection that damages the bone supporting the teeth and can lead to tooth loss.

Oral cancer: Tobacco use is a major risk factor for oral cancer. The constant exposure to carcinogens in chewing tobacco significantly increases the chances of developing cancerous lesions in the mouth, tongue, and lips.

Leukoplakia: This precancerous condition manifests as white patches on the inner cheeks and gums. While not cancerous itself, leukoplakia can develop into oral cancer if left untreated.

Other effects: The detrimental effects of chewing tobacco extend beyond the mouth. Nicotine raises blood pressure and heart rate, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Pregnant women who use smokeless tobacco risk complications for themselves and their developing babies.

Here’s how these can be addressed:

Raising awareness: Public health campaigns can educate people about the hidden dangers of chewing tobacco, dispelling myths and highlighting the risks to oral and overall health.

Regulation: Stricter regulations on the production, sale, and marketing of chewing tobacco products can deter consumption, particularly among youth. Increased taxes can further discourage its use.

Promoting cessation programmes: Making smoking cessation programmes readily available and accessible can help individuals quit chewing tobacco and improve their oral and overall health.