Some consider spit tobacco, also known as smokeless tobacco, to be a safe alternative to smoking cigarettes. In reality, the use of smokeless tobacco can cause attrition of tooth structure, staining, halitosis, periodontal disease, leukoplakia and cancer of the mucous membranes.
Smokeless tobacco is defined as tobacco that is used either orally or through the nasal cavity.
Snuff is composed of finely ground tobacco which can be either moist or dry. Snuff may also be used by snorting it through the nose. Chewing tobacco usually is shredded or loose-leaf tobacco, but can also be found as dried bricks or twisted strands. It is primarily used orally by placing it into the mouth and chewing. It is often held in the mouth for prolonged periods of time.