How Smoking Affects Your Dental Hygiene & Oral Health
Published on June 9th, 2021
Most people who smoke know the health risks and conditions that have been linked to the habit. Smoking is known to cause heart disease, cancer, emphysema, death, and many other issues. However, smoking is still common, and many people across the country struggle to quit every day.
The problem is that nicotine is an addictive substance which smokers, and other tobacco users, quickly find themselves reliant upon soon after they start smoking. This craving for nicotine often outweighs the health concerns for tobacco users, despite even some immediate side effects.
Smoking damages our bodies, and that includes our teeth. Tobacco products, from cigarettes to cigars, can lead to stained teeth, tooth loss, oral cancer, gum disease, and other kinds of dental problems.
More About the Consequences
When smoking stains the teeth, it is because a build-up of nicotine collects on the surfaces of teeth, changing them from white to yellow. To help smokers keep their teeth white and clean, it is recommended that they either quit the habit, or undergo frequent dental cleanings.
Bad breath, and the decreased sense of smell and taste, are other common side effects of tobacco use, such as smoking cigarettes, vapes, etc.
Tobacco use also increases the risk of developing gum disease. It is actually doubled for people who use tobacco products. Smoking weakens the immune system, and therefore, the body has trouble fighting germs that accumulate in the mouth. When left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss, bleeding gums, receding gums, swelling, damage to the jaw bone, etc.
Oral cancers are directly linked to smoking and tobacco use. Oral cancer can be defined as cancer of the tongue, throat, lips, sinuses, etc. However, it should be noted that smoking can also lead to other types of cancer, such as lung cancer.
Your Dentist in River North
Quitting smoking can be hard, but suffering the consequences of smoking are much worse. If you are in the process of quitting smoking, or have already quit, and you want to improve the appearance and health of your smile, call Chicago Dental Solutions today.
At Chicago Dental Solutions, our team of prosthodontists can help you on your journey towards a brighter smile. If your oral health has suffered due to smoking, such as tooth staining or gum disease, there are ways to improve the quality and appearance of your teeth. Whether you need porcelain veneers near Lakeview, or an entire smile makeover by Midway Airport, we are here for you.
