World No Tobacco Day 2021
The WHO observes the World No Tobacco Day on the 31st of May every year. It aims at increasing public awareness regarding the ill effects of tobacco consumption. This day is a celebration world over of a unified effort by various members of the population battling out a fight against tobacco use. Here we aim to outline effects of tobacco use on the oral cavity. So let’s dive in.
EFFECT ON TEETH
Staining of teeth
Increased deposition of plaque and calculus leading to increased incidence of tooth decay and gum disease
EFFECT ON GUMS AND BONE
Swelling of gums
Exaggerated bone loss leading to loss of tooth support and early tooth loss
OTHER EFFECTS
Foul mouth odour
Inflammation of salivary gland openings and reduced flow of saliva
Development of precancerous whitish patches in the cheeks and gums increasing the risk for oral cancer
Delayed healing post extractions due to constriction of blood vessels
The effects of tobacco consumption in either the smoked or smokeless forms are manifold and affect the overall health of individuals massively. Every major organ of the body is affected due to tobacco consumption and this habit being highly addictive in nature further makes this a vicious circle. Starting from today, take a pledge to have a tobacco-free lifestyle, choose your health over this habit, choose your dear ones over all the health hazards tobacco use brings with it. Choose yourself over Tobacco!