Smoking and Oral Health

Most people are aware that smoking is bad for your health and can lead to more serious conditions like oral cancer, but what does it have to do with your mouth?

First, it affects the colour of your teeth and your breath. Nicotine in cigarettes sticks to the enamel of your teeth making them stained brown and yellow.

Most importantly it can lead to gum disease (periodontal disease) affecting your gums by minimizing the amount of oxygen in your bloodstream affecting the healing process of any disease. Smoking can also increase the bacteria or dental plaque in your mouth also leading to gum disease.  Gum disease can be serious depending on the severity and can even lead to tooth loss.

Important things to also note. Smoking tobacco lowers the success rate of dental implants and can also affect the healing process after you have had a tooth extracted or periodontal treatment.

To find out ways to quit or if you have any other questions be sure to ask your dental hygienist about smoking cessation.

Some tips to help you quit:

• Make a plan

• Have a support system

• Keep busy

• Avoid triggers

• Exercise

• Reward your accomplishments