IMPACT OF SMOKING ON YOUR ORAL HEALTH
HOW DOES SMOKING AND VAPING AFFECT ORAL HEALTH
Smoking has a significant impact on oral health and can lead to a range of serious dental and health problems. Dentistry, as a branch of medicine, is aware of the damaging effects of smoking and has warned the public about the risks involved. Some of the common effects of smoking include tooth discoloration, bad breath, gum disease, tooth loss, oral cancer, dry mouth, and impaired healing. If you smoke, it is important to take extra care of your teeth and gums to prevent negative consequences. Regular dental exams and cleanings can help detect and prevent oral health problems, so be sure to book an appointment with one of our experienced dentists at a Woodbourne Dental.
HOW CIGARETTES AND TOBACCO PRODUCTS IMPACT YOUR ORAL HEALTH
Smoking and the use of tobacco products can have a detrimental effect on oral health. It can cause tooth discolouration, bad breath, gum disease, and tooth loss. The chemicals in tobacco products, such as nicotine and tar, can also increase the risk of developing oral cancer. Smokers are more likely to experience periodontal (gum) disease. This is a serious condition in which the gums become inflamed and infected, leading to tooth loss and other oral health problems. Smoking weakens the immune system and makes it more difficult for the gums to fight infection. Moreover, smoking can make it difficult for the body to heal from dental treatments, such as extractions, implants, and gum surgery, leading to longer recovery times and a higher risk of complications.
HOW VAPING AND E-CIGARETTES IMPACT YOUR ORAL HEALTH
Vaping has become an increasingly popular smoking alternative. However, the impact of vaping on oral health is still unclear. Although some studies have shown that vaping is less harmful than smoking, there is still much that is unknown about the long-term effects of e-cigarettes. Vaping can cause dry mouth, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. The heat generated by e-cigarettes can also cause tooth sensitivity, making it difficult to eat and drink hot and cold foods. Similar to cigarettes, the nicotine and other chemicals present in e-cigarettes can also harm the gums and increase the risk of developing oral cancer.
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR TEETH IF YOU SMOKE
If you smoke or use tobacco products, it is important to take care of your oral health to prevent any negative consequences. A few tips to help you protect your teeth:
-
Using a fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth twice a day.
-
Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
-
Regular dental exams and cleanings by your dentist.
-
Stop smoking or using tobacco products. Quitting smoking is the best way to protect your oral and overall health.
-
Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated and rinse away harmful substances.
-
Use a mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.