Are there any oral health implications for the athletes who use chewing tobacco?
Dr. Till: Smokeless tobacco, snuff, and chewing tobacco are not safe alternatives to smoking. Snuff and chewing tobacco contain greater amounts of cancer-causing substances than are found in cigarettes. “Spit tobacco” can cause a number of mouth problems, including leukoplakia (white patches), that can lead to cancer. It also leads to other dental and medical problems such as gingival (gum) recession, stained teeth, bad breath, increased heart rate, and high blood pressure. Spit tobacco contains high levels of nicotine just as cigarettes do. It does not take long to become addicted to nicotine. The dipping and chewing habit is very hard to kick. Oral health professionals are in an excellent position to help smokeless tobacco users who are interested in quitting. The results of using spit tobacco can be pointed out, and information about its effects on health and the benefits of quitting can be discussed. The dental office can help a tobacco user plan “quit strategies” and alternatives.
