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Smoking Vs. Chewing

There are several types of chewing tobacco, and although there is no smoke to be inhaled, this product is not a lower-risk alternative to cigarettes. The risks of chewing tobacco are different to the risks of smoking, but can be just as devastating.

  1. Addiction

    • Chewing tobacco contains nicotine, so you can still become addicted to it. According to the Mayo Clinic, over time, you can develop a tolerance to the nicotine in chewing tobacco, which means you'll want more of it. This can lead to dangerous habits, such as leaving the tobacco in your mouth longer, swallowing the juices or using it more often.

    Cancer

    • Chewing tobacco may not lead to lung cancer, but because it is held in the mouth for long periods of time, it can lead to cancer of the esophagus and several types of mouth cancer. If surgery is required to remove these cancers, the face can be disfigured, which can be particularly difficult to deal with.

    Dental Problems

    • Chewing tobacco can cause cavities because it is high in sugar. It also can weaken the enamel of teeth, which leaves them more vulnerable to decay. Another effect is gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.

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