When thinking about the health effects of smoking, it is normally lung cancer, emphysema and bronchitis that come to mind. However, smoking can affect all areas of your body including your oral health.
What are the chances of smoking affecting my oral health?
Your risk of developing smoking related diseases depends on how long you have been smoking and the number of cigarettes you smoke a day.
How does smoking affect my risk of developing oral cancer?
Smoking plays a significant role in many cases of oral cancer diagnosed each year. Whenever you inhale from a cigarette, the harmful chemicals present in the tobacco smoke first pass through your mouth and down your throat to reach your lungs. Over time these chemicals can cause changes in the tissues in your mouth, which can lead to oral cancer. Oral cancer is a preventable disease, by avoiding smoking and seeing a dentist regularly for routine appointments, you can help to keep oral cancer out of your future.
What is the link between smoking and gum disease?
Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums which left untreated can lead to pockets forming around teeth and bone loss. In the long term this can lead to tooth loss. Smokers are twice as likely to have gum disease than non-smokers, no matter how good their oral hygiene is. Smoking reduces the blood flow to your mouth and gums meaning it is more difficult for the gums to heal, any treatment is therefore likely to be less effective.
Why does smoking increase my risk of tooth loss?
Smokers are more likely to suffer with tooth loss as gum disease progresses. If you do lose a tooth there is a risk that you will suffer with a dry socket, where the nerve and bone are exposed, causing extreme pain. It is also not possible to place dental implants to replace missing teeth as the bone will not grow to secure the dental implants in place.
How does smoking lead to bad breath and stained teeth?
The nicotine present in cigarettes will stain your teeth. You will be able to notice the yellowing of your teeth within several weeks and over time your teeth may become brown. The best way to remove this staining is to attend for regular appointments with the hygienist. Smoking also causes a very distinct form of halitosis, the only way to prevent this is to stop smoking.
What if I want to quit?
The nicotine in cigarettes is highly addictive and this means that quitting is no easy feat. Most people will need support from family and friends. Your dentist will also be able to provide you with help and advice to make this the time you quit for good.
If you would like more help and advice on stopping smoking do not hesitate to ask the dentist when you next visit. Call Ringmer Dental today on 01273 813898 and book a consultation.