Tobacco Use and Orofacial Pain: A Meta-analysis

A meta-analysis of six studies showed that orofacial pain was significantly worse in tobacco (smoked and smokeless) users (odds ratio [OR] = 3.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.92, 6.58) in comparison to nonusers. Subgroup analysis showed that the odds of orofacial pain was three times (OR = 3.13, 95% CI: 1.16, 8.46) higher among smokers, but was not associated with smokeless tobacco.

This study shows that the odds of orofacial pain among patients with oral diseases increase for patients who are smokers. The results are a significant contribution to the literature because, while the relationship between smoking and general body ache has been shown to be bidirectional, the specific association between tobacco use and orofacial pain warranted further study. The findings could help dentists and other specialists more effectively manage patients with orofacial pain who are also tobacco consumers.

https://academic.oup.com/ntr/article-abstract/22/11/1957/5831215?redirectedFrom=fulltext

Published On: December 14, 2021 Categories: TMJ Disorder Posts, Uncategorized, Wellness