Prevention and treatment of smokeless tobacco use

University of Minnesota, Department of Psychiatry, Minneapolis 55455, USA.

A review of the literature examining school-based prevention and treatment intervention programs for smokeless tobacco users is provided. Although few school-based prevention studies have been conducted, the results are promising. Many of the treatment studies that have been conducted, thus far, are limited due to the sample size and the lack of a control group. However, of the studies that have not had these limitations, the results are also promising. In general, studies show that intervention in the dental office can be effective and that group behavioral treatment may also improve cessation rates over minimal contact. On the other hand, pharmacological treatment, which has primarily focused on 2 mg nicotine gum, has not been found to be an effective treatment. Dentists are in an ideal position to advise and assist smokeless tobacco users to quit. The majority of smokeless tobacco users want advice and help from their dentists, and a significant number indicate that discussion of the negative oral effects from the use of smokeless tobacco has an impact on their desire to quit.