*Updated April 2025

Many people believe that cigars are a safer alternative to cigarettes, especially amongst younger populations. The truth is they can be just as harmful—if not more. While cigars may have a more refined image and are often associated with special occasions, they still pose significant health risks. From cancer to gum disease, smoking cigars can take a serious toll on your oral health and overall well-being.

What is a cigar?

The National Cancer Institute defines a cigar as “A tube-shaped tobacco product that is made of tightly rolled, cured tobacco leaves in a tobacco leaf wrapper or a wrapper that contains tobacco. It may also have other ingredients, including substances to add different flavors. A cigar is lit on one end and smoked, but the smoke is usually not inhaled into the lungs.”

Unlike many cigarettes, most cigars lack filters, exposing users directly to all the harmful toxins and chemicals present in the smoke.

Note: Many people mistakenly believe that cigarette filters reduce the harmful health effects of smoking. However, research shows that filters do not lessen the risks and may actually encourage deeper inhalation, increasing exposure to toxic chemicals in the lungs.

Cigar use in South Dakota

Cigar use in South Dakota is on the decline—a promising trend. Among middle schoolers, lifetime cigar use dropped from 2.5 percent in 2021 to just 0.9 percent in 2023. Meanwhile, 4.1 percent of male high school students in the state report smoking cigars. At the household level, cigar use decreased slightly from three percent in 2021 to 2.6 percent in 2023. These figures reflect a positive shift toward reduced tobacco use in the state.

The impact of cigar use on your smile

Regular cigar use can have serious consequences for your oral health, increasing the risk of multiple conditions. According to the Mayo Clinic, "Regular cigar smoking increases the risk of cancers such as those of the mouth, throat, esophagus, and larynx." These risks highlight the significant impact cigars can have on overall health, particularly in the mouth and respiratory system.

Additionally, gum disease and tooth loss have been linked to cigar smoking. The chemicals in cigar smoke irritate the gums, making them more vulnerable to infection and recession. Long-term cigar smokers often experience severe gum disease, which can lead to painful dental problems and eventual tooth loss.

Cigars can damage more than your smile

The impact of regular cigar use can impact more than your smile. According to the American Lung Association, 9,000 premature deaths each year can be linked to smoking cigars. Furthermore, a single large cigar can contain as much tobacco as an entire pack of cigarettes. Frequent cigar smoking and inhaling the smoke can significantly increase the risk of coronary heart disease.

You can quit cigars

If you or a loved one is ready to quit using cigars, support is available! The SD QuitLine offers FREE support through counseling, nicotine patches and gum, and other services to help you or those you love to quit any tobacco for good.