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Tobacco use is a major concern worldwide and a leading cause of preventable deaths and chronic diseases, including mouth diseases. 

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection affecting the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth, causing tooth loss, bone damage, and other oral health problems when untreated. Prevalence of tobacco use among adults in South Africa: Results from the first South African National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey indicates that the smoking prevalence among adults aged 15 years and older in South Africa was 17.6%, equivalent to approximately one in six adults. 

Nevertheless, smoking prevalence differs significantly by age, gender, and other demographic factors.

Smoking Weakens Your Immune System

Smoking weakens the immune system by decreasing immune cells’ number and function, making it harder for your body to fight infections. It increases the production of inflammatory chemicals, causing damage to the gum tissue and making it more susceptible to infection. Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable diseases and premature deaths worldwide. It’s been linked to diseases like lung cancer, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, oral cancer, respiratory infections, and reproductive and fertility problems.

Smoking Slows Down Healing

Smoking is a high-risk factor for gum disease.  The thousands of toxic chemicals inhaled when smoking, including nicotine, reduce blood flow to the gums and impair the body’s ability to fight infection. This means that smokers are more likely to experience complications from gum disease, such as slow healing and recurrent infections. 

Smoking delays gum tissue healing and makes the immune system less effective at defending the body against bacteria and other pathogens. Smokers may experience longer recovery after gum surgery or other dental procedures and may be more prone to complications such as infection, bleeding, and gum recession.

How Else Does Smoking Affect The Mouth?

There are many other ways smoking negatively affects the mouth besides gum disease. 

• Stained teeth: Smoking can cause teeth to become yellow or brown due to the nicotine and tar in cigarettes.
• Bad breath: Smoking can cause bad breath or halitosis, which can be difficult to eliminate, even with brushing, flossing, and mouthwash.
• Tooth loss: Gum disease caused by smoking can lead to tooth loss as the gums become weak and recede, leading to loose teeth.

Does Smoking Cause Noma?

Smoking is a known risk factor for Noma. Noma is a severe form of gangrenous necrosis that can affect the soft and hard tissues of the face, including the gums, lips, cheeks, and nose.

Smoking damages the blood vessels, making it easier for Noma to develop. In addition, smoking can increase the risk of other conditions, such as periodontal disease, which can also increase the risk of developing noma.

While smoking is not the only cause of Noma, it is an important risk factor that can significantly increase the likelihood of developing this severe and potentially life-threatening condition. Quitting smoking is important in reducing the risk of developing noma and other serious health problems.

Here are some facts about Noma:

• Noma is typically preceded by an infection such as measles or strep throat, which weakens the immune system and makes it easier for the bacteria that cause Noma to take hold.
• The exact cause of Noma is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to malnutrition, poor oral hygiene, and other environmental factors.
• Noma can cause severe disfigurement and can be life-threatening if left untreated.
• Treatment for Noma usually involves a combination of antibiotics, wound care, and surgical intervention, such as skin grafts or reconstruction of the affected areas.
• Despite treatment, the mortality rate for Noma is high, with estimates ranging from 10% to 90%, depending on the severity of the disease and the availability of medical care.
• Prevention of Noma involves improving overall health and nutrition, promoting good oral hygiene, and ensuring timely treatment of infections that can lead to Noma.
• There is ongoing research into new treatments for Noma, including using stem cells and growth factors to promote tissue regeneration and reconstruction.

Overall, Noma is a devastating disease with severe physical and emotional consequences. Prevention and early treatment are critical to improving outcomes for those affected by this condition.

How To Prevent Gum Disease

Practising good oral hygiene habits is the best way to prevent gum disease. This includes brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. 

Quitting smoking can be challenging, but various resources are available to help. Nicotine replacement therapy, such as chewing gum, lozenges and patches, can help reduce cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms. Counselling and support groups can also provide helpful resources and encouragement. Speak to your dentist to guide you through what’s best for your lifestyle and needs.