Articles: Tobacco Use and Oral Health Outcomes

In a new study released Friday December 9, 2022 in JAMA, researchers using the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) study confirmed previous associations between tobacco use and various adverse oral health outcomes. This nationally representative prospective cohort study found that tobacco users were over 30-40% more likely to suffer gum disease, loose teeth, or having teeth removed/lost. Cigar smokers were 43% more likely to report precancerous lesions in the mouth. While this result is not surprising, the PATH study is unique in its prospective cohort design, which adds significantly to the confidence the scientific community has that the association is causal. Importantly this data also finds a connection between adverse oral health and ENDS use. Although, since most ENDS users are current or former smokers, causality and a mechanism of harm are both unable to be determined. This information acts as a good rationale for contacting local oral health providers to inspire more proactive screening and referral during routine clinical visits. Read the full article here.

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