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Everyone is now well aware of how smoking can have a serious effect on one's overall health. What most people don't consider is the bad impact smoking has on your oral health. It's not only discolored teeth or terrible breath. It goes far beyond that. 4th and Morris Dentistry in Renton, WA, offers the best dental treatments and procedures to achieve the best results.

Can Smoking Damage Your Teeth or Gums?

Quitting smoking improves oral health by lowering the risk of acquiring gum disease. Gum disease, commonly known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gum line. It occurs when tartar and germs collect beneath or above the gums, causing inflammation. Smoking is connected to gum disease because smokers have more tartar on their teeth than nonsmokers. Tobacco contains nicotine, which lowers saliva production, making tartar and bacteria buildup in the mouth easier.

The Effects of Smoking on Your Teeth and Oral Cavity

There are numerous ways in which smoking might harm your oral health.

Stained Teeth and Bad Breath

Cigarette tar can stain your teeth, darken your tongue, and induce halitosis, as well as diminish your sense of smell and taste.

Weakened Immune System

The immune systems of smokers are impaired, resulting in lower defenses against oral diseases and a longer recovery period from dental surgical procedures.

Tooth Decay and Loss

Tobacco use encourages the accumulation of bacteria, plaque, and tartar, which leads to cavities, decay, and tooth loss.

Mouth Sores and Ulcers

Smokers are significantly more likely to suffer from these typical oral health disorders.

Gum Recession

Smokers who acquire gum disease have receding gums that expose the crown margins. This may make dental hygiene more difficult and alter the appearance of their crowns.

Oral Cancer

Exposure to dangerous chemicals present in cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco causes mutations in the healthy cells of your mouth and throat, raising your risk of getting oral cancer, which is likely the most serious and difficult to treat.

How to Safeguard Your Oral Health

Reduce your risk of oral health problems if you smoke or use tobacco products by brushing twice daily, after breakfast and before bedtime, and flossing once daily. Schedule expert tooth cleanings and checkups regularly, as advised by your dentist. If at all possible, quit smoking or reduce your consumption. According to research, smokers who cut back to less than half a pack per day had only three times the chance of acquiring gum disease as nonsmokers.

Call us at (425) 226-6227 or schedule an appointment online for the best dental care and experience.