initiative 
Smoking is the leading cause of death in most developed countries, and a risk factor for many systemic diseases and disorders. The more than 4000 chemical molecules contained in cigarettes make these extremely harmful to health.
Smoking has also been proven to have an influence on oral health and the development of periodontal diseases; in fact smoking increases the risk for periodontal disease by 5–20% (compared to non-smokers). It is also a predisposing factor in the development of oral cancer, along with the consumption of alcohol and certain nutritional deficiencies.
The following article addresses the mechanisms of action of tobacco on oral health and its association with periodontal disease.