Tobacco smoking is an addiction habit first introduced in Europe in the fifteenth century. Jerez & Terres (1492) are believed to have been the first Europeans to observe smoking of tobacco. Until recently, the effect of smoking on periodontal health has been discussed for at least 40 years.
Based on various studies, it is now believed that smoking is a risk factor for periodontal disease affecting prevalence, extent and severity.
Smoking also affects the clinical outcome of nonsurgical, surgical and implant therapy.
Smokeless tobacco products and their effects:
The various smokeless tobacco products used in India are:
Khaini, Manipuri tobacco, Mishri, Pan, Snuff and Zarda.
In a study carried out by Robertson PB, Walsh M in 1990, It has been shown that localized attachment loss in the form of gingival recession (gum disease where gums receed from their normal levels) occurs in 25-30% of smokeless tobacco users. This attachment loss is most prevalent adjacent to the mandibular (lower jaw) buccal areas where smokeless tobacco products are commonly placed.
.
