Tobacco Products
Aphthous ulcers or mouth sores are a common report of former smokers. Smoking promotes the formation of pathogens, plaque, and tartar, which makes it more likely to develop mouth sores and gum diseases. Because nicotine lowers the immune system and slows the body’s healing process, smokers develop more infections and lesions. In addition to increasing the germs in the mouth, smoking decreases the amount of oxygen in the blood, making it more difficult for the soft tissues to repair. Other side effects of smoking include discolored teeth, chronic foul breath or halitosis, and mouth ulcers.
Based on a study’s findings, 40 percent of patients had mouth ulcers while trying to quit smoking, most often during the first two weeks. However, it was more common among heavy smokers, and their frequency was linked to other withdrawal symptoms. Aside from the risk of developing lung cancer, smokers can also acquire mouth cancer. This occurs when the tobacco’s toxins mutate the healthy cells in the mouth and throat. The tongue, the roof of the mouth, and the gums are the most common sites of oral cancer. Tobacco users have a six-fold increased risk of developing mouth cancer compared to non-users.
