Smoking

Smoking is a terrible habit to have. It causes numerous problems with the lungs, heart, and your oral health. Many are unaware of how detrimental smoking is to the teeth. It can cause complications with gums, teeth, and breath. We recommend seeing a dentist regularly to combat these possible issues, but we also hope you stop smoking for long term health benefits.

How does smoking affect oral health?

When you smoke, you restrict the amount of oxygen that is allowed into the bloodstream. Our blood needs oxygen to heal wounds and combat infections in the body. Restricting access will eventually cause bacteria around the gums to spread and worsen. Smoking leads to gum disease and oral cancer.

90% of people with oral cancer have used tobacco. Smoking significantly increases the rate in which these ailments occur. Furthermore, plaque and tartar buildup is increased with smoking. Plaque and tartar lead to further complications with your teeth.

Tooth infections can be more than bothersome

These issues are the most severe when smoking, but there are other problems they cause. The tar and nicotine in cigarettes will stain your teeth. Short term smoking causes teeth to be yellow while the long term effects are usually brown teeth. Most people like the taste of food. Unfortunately, your taste buds will change if you smoke. Losing your taste will also contribute to losing your smell. These are essential senses to have. The last thing you want is not being able to enjoy food.

Benefits of Quitting Smoking

Quitting smoking benefits oral health, reduces the risk of fatal diseases, and so much more. Your dentist will be happy to hear you have quit smoking because of the issues it can create for the mouth. If you do quit smoking, then your breath will smell better, further staining will stop, more oxygen is allowed in the bloodstream, and your senses will improve.

Smoking is extremely hard to shake because of the addictive substance cigarettes are made with. However, there are ways to quit the habit. Nicotine chewing gum, nicotine patches, lozenges, inhalers, and nasal sprays are just a few options. You should also consult your doctor to help you quit.

If you have decided to quit smoking and want to improve the look of your teeth, then contact Gentle Dental today. Call us at (281) 855-1100 or visit our website for more information.