Effects of Smoking on Oral Health
Smoking not only leaves unsightly stains on teeth and causes bad breath, but it also has detrimental effects on the tongue. The nicotine found in cigarettes is a vasoconstrictor, which means it reduces blood flow to organs and gradually makes blood vessels less flexible. This restriction of blood flow not only affects the delivery of essential nutrients to cells, but it also prolongs the healing process for any damage sustained by the tongue. Furthermore, injuries to the tongue caused by smoking may become more susceptible to infection. However, quitting smoking can help alleviate these oral health issues and prevent further complications.
Tongue Cancer
Tongue cancer can be classified into two types based on the affected area. The first type affects the front two-thirds of the tongue, including the frenulum and salivary glands. The second type affects the back third of the tongue, near the pharynx. Common symptoms of tongue cancer include the presence of a painful sore or lump on the tongue that does not heal, as well as unexplained bleeding. It is important to note that tongue cancer can be successfully treated if detected early.