Smoking is bad for your teeth and gums, just as it is for your overall health. Despite the fact that many people still smoke, there are vital reasons not to do so.
According to WebMD smoking is bad for your teeth, gums and oral health because it leads to:
Bad breath
Tooth discoloration
Inflammation of the salivary gland openings in the roof of your mouth
Increased plaque build up
Increased loss of bone in the jaw
Increased risk of leukoplakia (white patches inside the mouth on the tongue, cheek or gums)
Delayed healing after tooth extraction, periodontal treatment or oral surgery
Lower success rate with dental implants
Increased risk of developing oral cancer
The CDC warns that smokers are two times more at risk for gum disease than non-smokers.
Cigar and pipe smokers face risks similar to those of cigarette smokers.
If you smoke, you should consider doing everything you can to quit for the sake of your general health and also your oral health.
Keep Regular Dental Appointments
Keeping regular dentals appointments is a good way to maintain healthy gums and teeth. Whatever issues you face, Dr. Han Nguyen is always glad to explain what’s happening and discuss treatment options.