The sugar and other chemicals found in smokeless tobacco can cause the gums to become damaged and recede from the teeth. Gum recession and loss of the underlying bone tissue can cause teeth to loosen, drift from their original position, and fall out or need to be removed. This damage can occur in as little as 3-4 months with daily use of smokeless tobacco. Much of this gum and tooth damage is permanent. The nicotine in smokeless tobacco can cause heart and circulatory system disorders.
Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict increasing the heart rate and the blood pressure to rise.
An elevated heart rate and increased blood pressure increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Constricted blood vessels lead to slower reaction time detrimental to athletic performance. Research has proven the use of any form of tobacco does not enhance athletic performance and does cause health problems. The tissues in the mouth are easily irritated from the hundreds of chemicals found in smokeless tobacco. After several months of smokeless tobacco use, the location on the cheek and gum where the tobacco is held will become white, wrinkled, hardened, and thick.