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A recent study published in Heliyon reveals that smokers have higher levels of harmful bacteria in their mouths, contributing to gum disease and increasing the risk of serious diseases like heart disease and cancer. This research, building on findings from a 2014/2016 study on vascular and metabolic health, examined 128 individuals and found significant differences in the oral microbiome of smokers compared to non-smokers.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that smoking kills 8 million people annually, yet 1.3 billion people continue to use tobacco, with 80% living in low to middle-income countries. Despite ongoing anti-smoking campaigns, the prevalence of tobacco use remains alarmingly high.
The Oral Microbiome and Its Role in Health
The oral cavity, the first point of entry for substances into the body, houses a diverse community of microorganisms known as the oral microbiome. Under healthy conditions, these microorganisms support digestion, protect oral health, and regulate the immune system. However, disturbances in this delicate balance, such as those caused by smoking, can lead to diseases like periodontitis (gum disease), cardiovascular disease, and even cancer.
Impact of Smoking on Oral Health
The research team found that smokers had significantly higher levels of harmful bacteria such as Fusobacterium, Campylobacter, and Tannerella forsythia. These bacteria are linked to gum disease and can also increase inflammation, potentially leading to systemic issues like heart disease.
Smoking introduces harmful substances, including nicotine, tar, lead, and ammonia, into the mouth. As these chemicals interact with the oral environment, they reduce oxygen levels, alter pH balance, and reduce saliva production. Saliva is essential not only for keeping the mouth moist but also for its antibacterial properties. A lack of saliva, combined with a decrease in oxygen, creates an environment where harmful bacteria thrive, disrupting the balance of healthy microorganisms.
One key toxin in cigarettes, nicotine, promotes the growth of certain harmful bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, by increasing the number of proteins on their surfaces. These proteins allow the bacteria to form biofilms—complex colonies of bacteria that lead to plaque, gum disease, and tooth decay.
The Risks of Vaping
The study also touched on the potential risks of vaping, which has been marketed as a safer alternative to smoking. Early research suggests that e-cigarettes, which contain harmful chemicals like nicotine and lead, may still contribute to an imbalance in the oral microbiome. Increased growth of harmful bacteria, such as Fusobacterium and Bacteroidales, has been observed in vapers, suggesting that vaping could also lead to gum disease.
Reversing the Damage
While smoking has a devastating impact on the oral microbiome and overall health, quitting smoking can help restore the balance of bacteria in the mouth over time. By quitting, individuals can reduce their risk of gum disease, promote healthy saliva production, and lower their chances of developing serious systemic diseases.
The study highlights the need for continued awareness campaigns, particularly targeting youth, to prevent the harmful effects of smoking and vaping. Governments, alongside organizations like the WHO, must remain vigilant in promoting smoking cessation and educating the public about the dangers of tobacco use.
Reference:
Prince, Yvonne et al., “The effect of cigarette smoking on the oral microbiota in a South African population using subgingival plaque samples,” Heliyon (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31559
