Smoking – Quitting is IMPORTANT for the teeth and mouth as well!
We are already well aware that smoking is detrimental to your lungs and health, but what some people aren’t aware of is that it is also extremely damaging to the mouth, teeth, and gingiva (gums). Smoking is a huge risk factor for several oral complications.
Oral cancer – patients are 6 times more prone to develop oral related cancers, the easiest possible way to prevent this is by QUITTING smoking, and visiting your dental professional routinely (it is generally recommended every 6 months).
Gum disease – smoking has been known to inhibit the immune system, therefore reducing your body’s ability to fight infection such as gingivitis and periodontal disease
Premature tooth loss – as a direct result of the periodontal disease that you have now developed as a result of SMOKING, you become more susceptible to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is a disease at which bacteria in the mouth cause bone loss and this loss of bone structure causes mobility in the teeth which in turn causes the teeth to fall out
Tooth discolouration – tooth discolouration is directly associated with smoking because of the tobacco that is almost always lingering around the teeth while smoking. Stains can range from light brown to BLACK depending on the frequency to which you are smoking. Depending on the location of the stain, your dental hygienist may find it very difficult to remove, in turn making for a more expensive dental appointment.
Bad breath – halitosis (severe bad breath) is generally caused by the retention and exhalation of tobacco
Severe wrinkling around the mouth – smoking can create excessive wrinkling around the mouth and speed up the skin’s aging process
Quitting is difficult, this is a given, but the benefits are almost immediate, both in your mouth and within your body. Your circulation will definitely improve, your blood pressure will begin to stabilize and your taste buds will revive.
Quitting smoking will benefit you as a whole!
Click on the following links to learn more
Quitting smoking
Nicorette
Smoking and dental health
