Integrating Tobacco Cessation with Early Diagnosis and Habit Intervention in the Clinical Management of Oral Potentially Malignant Disorder: A Case Report

This case report presents the early diagnosis and comprehensive management of mild epithelial dysplasia in a 22-year-old chronic tobacco user. Clinical findings were supported by histopathology, and treatment included medications along with structured tobacco cessation counselling. For tobacco cessation counselling, behavioral models specifically the 5A’s (Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, Arrange), 5R’s (Relevance, Risks, Rewards, Roadblocks, Repetition), and 5D’s (Delay, Distract, Drink water, Deep breathe, Discuss) used, which provided a thorough structure to help the patient overcome their tobacco dependence and encourage long-term quitting. Remarkable clinical and behavioral improvement was observed during follow-up. This case emphasizes the role of early intervention, interdisciplinary care, and dentist-led tobacco cessation in preventing malignant transformation of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) in young adults.