Smoking tobacco products has serious side effects including cancer, emphysema and death. Smoking affects not only the lungs, but also the mouth of the user. All aspects of the mouth can be affected, including the teeth, gums and tongue. There are many possible affects to the tongue from smoking. If you suspect that you are having side effects related to your smoking habit, be sure to contact your doctor immediately.
Tongue Cancer
One of the most serious effects of smoking on the tongue is the possibility of tongue cancer. According to the Mayo Clinic, tongue cancer presents itself as white lumps or ulcers on the surface of the tongue. Tongue cancer is highly curable, if diagnosed and treated appropriately. Approximately 10,000 Americans a year are diagnosed with tongue cancer.
Hairy Tongue
According to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health, a hairy tongue can be caused by tobacco use. Hairy tongue presents itself through a hairy or furry appearance on the surface of the tongue. This condition is harmless and can be treated with antibiotics.
Pain and Swelling
The tongue can be generally irritated by tobacco use, resulting in pain and uncomfortable swelling, according to the information website HealthNews.
Inhibited Healing
According to HealthNews, smoking causes a lack of healing response in the entire mouth, and also breaks down the body's natural defenses, making the mouth and tongue more susceptible to infections and disease.
Taste
Over time, smoking can inhibit the taste buds from giving the user a full pallet of tastes, that should include sweet, salty, sour and bitter.
