We all know the effects on our body caused by smoking. From cancer to premature aging to lung disease, there are many health concerns when it comes to the habit that kills nearly half a million people each year. If that’s not enough to make you not want to smoke, there are also many pitfalls when it comes to smoking and your mouth.
Smoking causes:
- Bad Breath
- Tooth discoloration
- Inflammation of the salivary gland openings on the roof of the mouth
- Increased build up of plaque and tartar on the teeth
- Increased loss of bone within the jaw
- Increased risk of leukoplakia, white patches inside the mouth
- Increased risk of developing gum disease, a leading cause of tooth loss
- Delayed healing process following tooth extraction, periodontal treatment, or oral surgery
- Lower success rate of dental implant procedures
- Increased risk of developing oral cancer
And it’s not just smoking cigarettes that put you at risk for all of the above, cigars, pipes and smokeless tobacco can lead to the same issues. Studies show that smokeless products have 28 chemicals that lead to oral cancers, and those same chemicals can lead to gum disease, bad breath, tooth discoloration and even plaque build up.
Downtown Dental wants you to be healthy from head to toe. If you are a smoker, please keep an eye on your oral and overall health, and have regular cleanings and check-ups to keep an eye on your mouth, gums and teeth.