There are many consequences of chewing tobacco:
- higher risk of cavities and receding gum tissue, which can eventually lead to tooth loss
- heart disease
- toxins swallowed in the juice that is produced can cause cancer not only in the mouth, lips, or tongue but also in the lining of the stomach, the bladder, the pancreas, and the voice box
Even knowing the consequences and noting the changes in his gum tissue and having a family now, trying to be a role model, it is tough for my husband to quit and hard for myself to be supportive. If you are a user or a parent/spouse/friend of someone that is, understand that tobacco dependency is a horrible addiction and it is extremely difficult to quit. To help break this habit, multiple aspects need to be addressed: physical, sensory, psychological, and behavioral. Try to sit down with them and discuss the risks and what you can do to help. Support from family and friends is crucial and know that it usually takes multiple times (and each time it gets a little bit easier) before successfully kicking the habit. Best thing to remember is to not give up!
– from Prycilla O. (Dental Assistant)