It’s no secret that smoking is bad for your health. But did you know that smoking can also have a negative impact on your teeth and gums? In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how smoking affects your oral health and what you can do to mitigate the damage.
The first thing to understand is that smoking does not cause cavities. However, it does contribute to a condition called dry mouth, which can lead to an increased risk of cavities. Saliva plays an important role in keeping your mouth healthy by washing away food particles and bacteria. When you smoke, the production of saliva decreases, leaving your mouth more vulnerable to tooth decay.
Smoking also increases your risk of gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can eventually lead to tooth loss. smokers are up to six times more likely to develop gum disease than nonsmokers. The reason for this is that tobacco use irritates and inflames the gums, making it easier for bacteria to cause an infection.
Not only does smoking contribute to gum disease, but it also makes it more difficult to treat. That’s because smoking decreases the amount of oxygen that flows to the gums, making it harder for them to heal after treatment.
Finally, smokers are also at an increased risk for developing oral cancer. Oral cancer is a dangerous condition that can be difficult to detect in its early stages. That’s why it’s important for smokers to visit their dentist regularly for screenings.
Conclusion:
The bottom line is that smoking takes a toll on your oral health. If you smoke, be sure to see your dentist regularly for cleanings and screenings. Dentistry at The Grove, dentist in Burlington Ontario is dedicated to helping patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Our team of expert dentists offers a wide range of services, from teeth whitening to dental implants & Invisalign. Contact us today to book an appointment.
