Oxidative and nitrosative stress and apoptosis in oral mucosa cells after ex vivo exposure to lead and benzo[a]pyrene

► Active caspase-3 showed a time dependent increase after Pb- and BaP-treatment. ► 3-nitrotyrosine is able to detect short-term exposure to Pb or BaP. ► Smokers' samples showed significant lower levels of oxidative stress.