How Smoking Impacts Your Oral Health
May 11, 2017
This year, on World No Tobacco Day on May 31st, smokers around the world have plans to finally quit. Most people understand how smoking can impact their health by being a risk factor for developing cancer, heart disease, diabetes or other chronic health conditions. Dr. Gregg Codelli also wants to stress how much smoking can affect oral health. The toxins going into your bloodstream from the nicotine and tar in cigarettes can be devastating on your teeth and gums. In some cases, expensive restorations like dental implants become a necessity and treatment for gum disease becomes commonplace for smokers. Here are some of the ways smoking can hurt your oral health and cause serious problems.
Gum Disease
Patients who smoke put themselves more at risk of developing painful gum disease. Gum tissue can become inflamed because of the constant stream of toxins from cigarettes within the mouth. Gums may feel tender and start to bleed because of the increased bacteria.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is another common problem associated with smoking. A smoker’s body is less likely to combat harmful bacteria, which could lead to cavities or serious decay.
Tooth Loss
The combination of gum problems and tooth decay may lead to another issue, tooth loss. As the gums become less stable, the teeth become looser and are likelier to fall out. Additionally, decaying teeth may start to crack and crumble from advanced cavities and smoking.
Oral Cancers
The last problem that smokers could face is an increased chance of developing oral cancer. Cancers of the tongue, mouth and lips can cause painful, and even deadly consequences for smokers. Treatment is often very invasive, expensive and uncomfortable.
If you need help with your oral health routine in order to prevent gum disease in Sandy Springs, GA, contact our office today. Dr. Codelli looks forward to helping you reach your optimal oral health.