Premium
Implications of tobacco smoking on the oral health of older adults
Author(s) -
Agnihotri Rupali,
Gaur Sumit
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
geriatrics and gerontology international
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.823
H-Index - 57
eISSN - 1447-0594
pISSN - 1444-1586
DOI - 10.1111/ggi.12285
Subject(s) - medicine , immunosenescence , periodontitis , oral health , smoking cessation , tooth loss , population , cigarette smoking , gerontology , dentistry , environmental health , immunology , pathology , immune system
Cigarette smoking is the foremost health risk issue affecting individuals of all age groups globally. It specifically influences the geriatric population as a result of chronic exposure to toxins. Its role in various systemic and oral diseases including cancer, premalignant lesions, periodontitis, tooth loss, dental caries and implant failures is well established. Smoking causes immuno‐inflammatory imbalances resulting in increased oxidative stress in the body. The latter hastens the immunosenescence and inflammaging process, which increases the susceptibility to infections. Thus, implementation of smoking cessation programs among older adults is imperative to prevent the development and progression of oral and systemic diseases. The present review focuses on smoking‐associated oral health problems in older adults, and the steps required for cessation of the habit. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 526–540. .