Here’s What Smoking Does to Your Smile
Are you a smoker?
While most of us already know that smoking is a very harmful habit for our overall health, we often forget that it can be just as detrimental to the health of our smiles.
A tobacco smoking habit puts a person’s oral health at risk for these issues:
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Periodontal (gum) disease
Smoking actually constricts the tiny blood vessels in the gums, which limits a healthy flow of blood, thus increasing a person’s risk for gum disease. Smoking can also make an existing gum disease condition worse. If a person doesn’t do what they should to manage or treat their gum disease, their teeth can eventually become loose and fall out – as there will not be sufficient gum left to support them.
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Tooth decay/cavities
Smoking decreases saliva production, which leads to a condition called dry mouth (or xerostomia). A dry mouth is a great place for tooth decay to develop, seeing as our saliva plays a fundamental role in protecting our teeth from acid attacks that occur when we consume the wrong foods and drinks.
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Oral cancer
Smokers have a significantly increased risk for oral cancer depending on the frequency and duration of their cigarette use. However, quitting (and staying off the cigarettes) will help to bring your risk down dramatically. Our Milton dentist encourages oral cancer screenings at our clinic, especially for patients with a history of smoking.
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Teeth discolouration
Smoking can dramatically yellow and discolour the teeth – and if you’ve been smoking for a long time, you might notice your smile isn’t as vibrant as it once was. A professional teeth whitening treatment (and kicking the habit!) will help you to brighten up.
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Bad breath (halitosis)
Bad breath, technically termed “halitosis” is another problem that smokers experience – and it’s pretty much unavoidable. Smoking leaves particles on the tongue and throat, causing “smoker’s breath”… which can be quite hard to conceal.
Still struggling to kick your smoking habit?
If you’re determined to quit but can’t seem to finally toss that last cigarette for good, you should seek support from a health professional you trust. You don’t need to do this alone – there’s plenty of people who have you in their best interest, and are rooting for your success!
We wish you good luck!
