Introduction: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a common oral mucosal disease characterized by the presence of multiple round or ovoid ulcers covered by a pseudomembranous slough and surrounded by an erythematous halo. The ulcer usually exists in the lining or nonkeratinized mucosa. There exists a relationship between smoking and occurrence of RAS due to the effects of nicotine which increases the keratinization of oral mucosa. Aims: Some researchers have hypothesized that smoking has a protective role in preventing the occurrence of RAS. They have also stated that nicotine decreases the secretion of pro- inflammatory cytokines which are known to produce RAS. This communication aims to give a perspective regarding the effects of nicotine in oral mucosa. Conclusion: The protective effect of smoking on RAS was only noticed when persons were heavy smokers or smoked for longer periods of time, according to the available literature. Lower prevalence of RAS in heavy smokers should not encourage smokers who suffer from RAS to increase their consumption.
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