You are probably familiar with the links between tobacco use and lung disease, cancer, and heart disease. Current studies have now also linked periodontal disease with tobacco usage. Cases of periodontal disease are more severe in smokers and tobacco-users than those who do not use tobacco. There is a greater incidence of calculus formation on teeth, deeper pockets between gums and teeth, and a greater loss of the bone and fibers that hold teeth in your mouth. In addition, your chance of developing oral cancer increases with the use of smokeless tobacco. Smoking in particular presents the highest risk for the development of periodontal disease, and for developing complications during periodontal and dental implant therapy. Chemicals in tobacco such as nicotine and tar also slow down healing and the predictability of success following periodontal treatment. Tobacco use also presents a significant risk for the development of oral cancer. Quitting smoking and tobacco-use can have innumerous benefits for your overall and periodontal health.