The effects of smoking on your teeth and mouth

While we are all aware of the negative impacts smoking can have on our health – how it can affect our teeth is not always common knowledge.

1. Smoking can cause the teeth to become discoloured and stained due to the nicotine and tar found in cigarettes. Not only does this staining not look very nice, but the rough surface of the staining can encourage plaque which can damage the teeth.
2. Gum disease. Studies have shown that smoking is one of the biggest risk factors in developing periodontal disease. Not only do smokers develop more plaque and tartar, they have a lack of oxygen in their blood stream meaning the periodontal tissues are more likely to be destructed.
3. Tooth loss. Periodontal disease is a progressive disease that eventually leads to tooth loss. On average, smokers lose between 2-3 teeth every 10 years.
4. Lack of healing. Another affect caused by a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream is reduced healing following dental procedures. The chemicals found in tobacco interfere with the healing process.
5. Oral cancer. It is a well known fact that smoking increases the risk of developing oral cancer (as well as other cancers). Smoking is the main avoidable risk factor for head and neck cancers.

Giving up smoking is the best way to slow the progression of gum disease. Giving up is not easy and many people try and fail to do so. If you are struggling, then there are smoking cessation clinics which help you to kick the habit. Secondly, an effective oral hygiene routine is essential to slow the progression. Thirdly, regular check ups are important to make sure your teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks and throat are healthy.

To book an appointment, please call us on 01844 343381 or visit our dental practice in Princes Risborough, Bucks.

Dr Sanjay Narda