Tobacco Use

Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of death in society.  Fortunately, it is also among the most preventable.  Aside from being a sociably undesirable habit, smoking can result in oral cancer, reduce smelling and tasting abilities, compromise recovery after oral surgery, stain the teeth, and increase the risk of contracting periodontal disease.  The American Dental Association (ADA) and all pediatric dentists encourage children, adolescents, and adults to abstain from all forms of tobacco use.

Almost all adult smokers have tried smoking before the age of nineteen.  In all likelihood, an individual who abstains from smoking throughout the teenage years will never pick up the habit.  Therefore, it is essential that parents strongly discourage preadolescent and adolescent tobacco use.

Is smokeless tobacco less dangerous for teens?

Tobacco use in any form brings the oral region into direct contact with carcinogens (cancer causing agents).  These carcinogens and other harmful chemicals cause irreparable damage to the child’s oral health.

Parents and teens often mistakenly evaluate smokeless tobacco as the “safer” option.  In fact, smokeless tobacco has been proven to deliver a greater concentration of harmful agents into the body, and to be far more addictive.  One snuff of tobacco has approximately the same nicotine content as sixty regular cigarettes.  In addition, smokeless tobacco causes leukoplakias in the mouth, which are dangerous pre-cancerous lesions.

What are the signs of oral cancer?

Oral cancer can be difficult to detect without the aid of the dentist.  In some cases, oral cancer is not noticeable or even painful until its later stages.  Parents of tobacco users must be aware of the following symptoms:

  • Changes in the way the teeth fit together.
  • Difficulty moving the jaw.
  • Mouth sores that don’t heal.
  • Numbness or tenderness.
  • Red or white spots on the cheek, lip, or tongue.

Oral cancer is treatable if caught early.  Disfiguring surgery can be avoided by having the child abstain from tobacco use and getting regular preventative dental checkups.

How can I stop my child from using tobacco?

There are several ways to discourage children and adolescents from using tobacco products.  First, talking to the child personally about the dangers of tobacco use (or asking the dentist to talk to the child) has proven an effective preventative strategy.  Second, parents should lead by example. According to research studies, children of non-smokers are less likely to pick up this dangerous habit.  Third, monitor the child closely.  If the child will not cooperate, screenings for tobacco can be requested at the dental office.

If you have questions or concerns about your childhood tobacco use, please contact your pediatric dentist.

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Testimonials

This is by far the finest practice I have ever been to. The Staff and Doctors are so caring, empathetic and efficient, making going to the Dentist a pleasant experience. I LOVE THIS PRACTICE! Dr. Wetherbee and Dr. Ahmed and the front desk staff, especially Kelley, Katie and Joan are all fantastic! I refer every friend I have to this practice.

Jayne Shamon Carver, MA

Being nervous about going to the Dentist, as I always have been, along with seeing a new Dentist for the first time in five years, I was not sure what to expect when arriving at Cranberry Dental Associates, today. My experience was nothing less than perfect. The front desk ladies were amazingly friendly and relaxed. Ashley, the Dental Assistant, was attentive and intelligent. Dr Ahmed was OUTSTANDING! I am glad I decided to come here!

Susannah Murphy Plymouth, MA

I was away at college and in the middle of the night experienced severe pain from an abscessed tooth and called our family's dental office emergency number. Unbelievably someone responded, immediately discussed my problem over the phone with me and arranged for me to be treated first thing in the morning and taken out of pain. Ultimately, I was referred to a specialist for root canal treatment. When I became nervous and uncomfortable with the endodontist, the doctor at Cranberry Dental interceded and completed the treatment himself. I am amazed at how responsive, compassionate and skillful they are and consider myself fortunate to have found Cranberry Dental Associates.

Nicole Tsina, Carver, MA

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Contact Us. We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.

Contact Us

We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.