The Damaging Impacts Using Tobacco has on the Gums and Teeth
The initial negative health problem people typically associate with smoking is cancer of the lungs. However, it will generally hurt other regions of the body, including your oral wellness. Aside from tooth discoloration as a result of smoking, the use of tobacco products puts you at risk of serious dental wellness problems. The majority of dental cancer diagnoses are as a result of smokeless tobacco and cigarettes. Keep reading to find out more information about the adverse impacts of tobacco use from our Houston, TX dental team at Made Ya Smile and why stopping is beneficial for your dental wellness.
The downsides of smoking
About 1-in-5 adults in the U.S. uses tobacco products daily. Regrettably, using tobacco products is the most common cause of avoidable disease in the country. Vaping, smoking, and snuff tobacco have been associated with major health conditions, including:
- Gum deterioration
- Cardiac disease
- Tooth decay
- Oral cancer, including the throat, cheek, tongue, and gum tissues
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Emphysema
- Diabetes
- Chronic bronchitis
Does tobacco hurt your teeth and gum tissues?
Using tobacco products doesn't just increase the dangers of mouth cancer — the longer you do it, the more complications you will sustain to your dental wellness. Houston, TX patients who use tobacco are more likely to develop buildup than nonsmokers, causing periodontal disease. Additional harmful effects of smoking on your dental health include:
- Raising the risk of jawbone loss
- Aesthetic imperfections, including yellow enamel
- Delayed healing following dental surgery or another kind of dental service
- Heightened risk of esophageal, oral, or tongue cancer
- Irritates the gum tissues, making it easier for plaque to build up and cause decay
- Bad breath
Oral health and the downsides smoking cigarettes has on your enamel
If you use tobacco or smoke, lessen the odds of oral health problems by brushing the teeth two times every day and flossing. Visit a dentist every six months for regular teeth cleanings and checkups. But if possible, we advise patients to stop smoking or try to reduce the frequency. Research backs up that smokers who cut back to half a pack a day can significantly decrease their chance of ending up with periodontal disease. Although vaping is regarded as less harmful to the gums when compared to smoking, it's still not a healthy alternative.
Access the assistance you need to safeguard your enamel and gum tissues by calling our dental physicians at Made Ya Smile. To learn more or arrange an appointment, call our staff in Houston, TX or book on the web today.