A study published in the April 2007 issue of the Journal of Periodontology delivered more bad news for those who smoke and those who are surrounded by smoke and may not smoke themselves. The results indicated that the potential for bone loss is greater in subjects with periodontal disease when they are exposed to smoke from “light” and “nonlight” cigarettes as compared to those who were in a smoke-free environment. The study was performed on 3 groups of rats with induced periodontal disease over a period of 30 days. The first group was not exposed to any smoke inhalation, the second group to light cigarettes, and the third group to regular cigarettes. Bone loss was greater in both groups exposed to smoke. This has implications for nonsmoking patrons of bars, restaurants, and night clubs. There are serious health risks for exposure to secondhand smoke that now include an increased risk of significant bone loss when coupled with existing periodontal disease.
(Source: perio.org, April 3, 2007)
