Smoking and Periodontal Disease – Current Perspective of the Possible Pathogenic Mechanisms

Several developing and developed countries are experiencing an epidemic in diseases caused by cigarette smoking and tobacco use. Despite numerous smoke free initiatives and governmental tobacco-control policies, tobacco consumption still remains excessively prevalent. In addition to the damaging impact on general health, smoking also has an effect on oral health. Epidemiological studies have clearly demonstrated a strong association between tobacco use/ smoking habit and periodontal diseases in diverse populations. Smoking has been considered as the most important risk factor for periodontitis among all life style factors. The present review provides an overview of the various mechanisms by which smoking affects the periodontal tissues.