Smoking - a risk factor for oral health in young people and adolescents

Abstract

Introduction: Smoking habits not only impact on malignant pathology and cardiovascular disease, but have a direct impact on the oral cavity, causing a wide range of effects, from tooth/dental fillings staining to periodontal disease, increased failure rates in dental implants, as well as oral cancer. Aim and objectives: The aim of this study was to highlight the implications of smoking in the development of dental plaque. Material and methods: We conducted an observational, retrospective study in which 157 young people aged 15-21 years were questioned about their smoking habits and then orally assessed. Results: The oral assessments showed that more than half of the subjects in group 1 had yellowed teeth, compared to less than 20% of those in group 2. Scale as well as yellowed teeth was found in more than 50% of those in group 1, as opposed to only 18% of those in group 2. Halitosis was the next most pronounced symptom observed and more frequently present in young people in group 1 as opposed to group 2. Bleeding gums, gingivitis and periodontitis were present in lower percentages in the young people in the study, but the percentages were still higher in those in group 1 than in group 2. Conclusion: Smoking is a predictor of tooth decay and has a negative impact on oral health.