CHEW TOBACCO AND TOOTH ABRASION.
Those products have grit and sand that scratches teeth and wears away the
hard surface or enamel. Premature loss of tooth enamel can cause added sensitivity
and may require corrective treatment.
CHEW TOBACCO AND GUM RECESSION.
Constant irritation to the spot in the mouth where a small wad of chewis placed
can result in permanent damage to periodontal tissue. It also can damage the
supporting bone structure. The injured gums pull away from the teeth, exposing
root surfaces and leaving teeth sensitive to heat and cold. Erosion of critical
bone support leads to loosened teeth that can be permanently lost.
CHEW TOBACCO AND BAD BREATH.
Common traits of long-term users are stained teeth and bad breath. Moreover,
the habit of continually spitting can be both unsightly and offensive.
NICOTINE DEPENDENCE.
Uses are similar to those from cigarette smoking. Nicotine addiction can
lead to an artificially increased heart rate and blood pressure. In addition,
it can constrict the blood vessels that are necessary to carry oxygen-rich
blood throughout the body. Athletic performance and endurance levels are decreased
by this reaction.
ORAL CANCER.
With the practice of "chewing" and "dipping," and its irritating juices
are left in contact with gums, cheeks and/or lips for prolonged periods of
time. This can result in a condition called leukoplakia. Leukoplakia appears
either as a smooth, white patch or as leathery-looking wrinkled skin. It results
in cancer in 3 percent to 5 percent of all cases.
DANGER SIGNS.