Masticatory Changes as a Result of Oral Disorders in Smokers

Abstract

Introduction For chewing to occur properly, it is necessary that all oral structures are present and of normal standard. Objectives The aim of this study is to verify the presence of oral changes in smokers and the impact of the changes on masticatory function compared with individuals who never smoked. Methods Forty-eight subjects were evaluated, split into two study groups (24 subjects each) of current tobacco users and individuals who have never smoked. The variables halitosis, presence of lesions suggestive of caries and periodontal problems, number of teeth, classification of malocclusions according to angle, standard grinding food, chewing pattern, and speed of chewing were evaluated. Results There was no statistically significant difference in tooth loss between the groups, but the smokers had more losses manifesting malocclusion. Most smokers had halitosis and lesions suggestive of caries and periodontal problems; the halitosis was associated with the latter variable. Masticatory speed was also reduced significantly in these individuals compared with the control group when associated with occlusal alterations, in addition to grinding food with the tongue. No difference was observed regarding the chewing pattern. The presence of halitosis and periodontal problems were more common in those who smoke more than 20 years. Conclusion There is an association between smoking and dental changes, which cause increased masticatory changes.

Influence of Masticatory Behavior on Muscle Compensations During the Oral Phase of Swallowing of Smokers

“…From the data of the same sample included in the present study, it was observed greater occlusal alteration associated to the masticatory performance, 7 besides the reduction of the olfactory and gustatory perception associated with muscular compensations during the oral phase of swallowing 8 in smokers. Nevertheless, the relationship between masticatory performance and muscular deglutition compensations in this population has not yet been elucidated to evaluate whether these adaptations are directly associated with smoking or if they are from a deviated masticatory behavior.…”

“…It occurs due to the reduction of dental pieces, which increases the time spent for adequate preparation of the food before swallowing. As the efficiency of the masticatory pattern is decreased, since it is performed by tongue kneading, 7 it is expected that the masticatory speed will be in deficit. In addition, the gustatory capacity of smokers is reduced due to structural changes caused by smoking.…”

“…6 Intrinsic and extrinsic factors can contribute to alter these processes, characterizing them as atypical by the presence of compensatory events. Regarding extrinsic factors, tobacco consumption results in structural alterations, such as tooth loss 7 and modification of sensory perception, 8 which cause disorders in the functionality of the stomatognathic system, which adapts to the structure presented. 9…”

Tobacco Influence on Taste and Smell: Systematic Review of the Literature

“…Studies in the field of speech therapy, specifically, compared smokers and non-smokers regarding their alterations. 5 19 These studies conclude that smoking is closely related to oral complications such as halitosis, apparent carious lesions and periodontal problems, which are risk factors for tooth loss and masticatory changes resulting from masticatory inefficiency. 19 They also show that smokers have sensory recognition capability inferior to non-smokers and muscular compensation during swallowing.…”

“… 5 19 These studies conclude that smoking is closely related to oral complications such as halitosis, apparent carious lesions and periodontal problems, which are risk factors for tooth loss and masticatory changes resulting from masticatory inefficiency. 19 They also show that smokers have sensory recognition capability inferior to non-smokers and muscular compensation during swallowing. 5 Finally, smoking has been associated with vocal related diseases as being a risk factor for maintaining adequate voice quality.…”