Tobacco Cessation Dangers of Smokeless Tobacco Smokeless tobacco

Tobacco Cessation

Dangers of Smokeless Tobacco Smokeless tobacco increases the risk for: • • Periodontal pockets Gingivitis Periodontitis • Oral lesions Oral cancer Gingival recession Bone loss Tooth loss

Periodontal Disease Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two categories of periodontal disease. Gingivitis is a bacterial infection that affects the gingiva (gums) only. Gingivitis is reversible. Periodontitis is a bacterial infection that affects the gingiva, periodontal ligament, bone, and cementum. Damage caused by periodontitis is permanent.

Periodontal Disease Healthy vs. Diseased Periodontal Disease in a tobacco patient

Oral Cancer It can be painless and easily go unnoticed in early stages. One person dies approximately every hour as a result of oral cancer. Those who smoke and drink have a 15% higher chance of developing oral cancer.

How to screen for oral cancer at home: � Extend the tongue to examine the sides and underside for white or red patches, as well as any lumps. � Feel along the lips and cheeks for lumps or bumps, as well as any white or red areas. � Use two fingers to feel along the floor of the mouth, checking for lumps or bumps. � Use two fingers to fell along the roof of the mouth, checking for and lumps, bumps, or areas of softness. � Use two fingers to gently press along the neck, checking for enlarged lymph nodes. � “Say Ahhh” Examine the tonsils for redness, enlargement, or unusual bumps.

Oral Cancer Self-Examination Also look for: �Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking �Hoarseness �Numbness �Unilateral and persistent ear ache Any sore or discolored area that does not go away within 14 days should be examined by a doctor.

Strategies for Quitting � Get rid of all tobacco products in your home, car, and workplace. � Ask your family, friends, and coworkers for support. � Fight irritability with breathing exercises. cravings through chewing gum, nicotine gum, or nicotine patches. Talk to your doctor about prescription nicotine replacement therapy.

Strategies for Quitting �Seek counsel and encouragement through local support groups. �The National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines at 1 -800 -422 -6237 �Askadviserefer. org �Smokefree. gov �www. quitnow. net

References Nield-Gehrig, Jill S. and Willman, Donald E. Foundations of Periodontics for the Dental Hygienist. (2011). Smoking and Periodontal Disease. Third Edition. Print. Nield-Gehrig, Jill S. and Willman, Donald E. Foundations of Periodontics for the Dental Hygienist. (2011). The Progression of Periodontal Disease. Third Edition. Print NIH Staff. (2012). Web. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Smokeless Tobacco. OCF Staff. (2015). Web. The Oral Cancer Foundation: Oral Cancer Facts.