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For decades, smoking has cemented itself as a bad habit that could cause serious health issues, including dental problems. Despite the numerous health warnings and advocacies, millions of people still find it hard to kick the habit of smoking.
If you’re still not convinced how smoking poses a threat to your oral health, here are more reasons why you should quit, according to your local dentist in Waterford.
Tobacco Causes Stained Teeth and Bad Breath
People are concerned about chipped or crooked teeth—but stained teeth are also a serious matter to consider. Chewing or smoking tobacco can stain your tooth enamel, making your smile look dull and unappealing.
Tobacco gives your teeth a yellowish-brown appearance that won’t be resolved by just brushing your teeth regularly. To remove those stains, you need professional tooth whitening techniques, including the use of clinical-grade peroxide to really clear out any stain.
Smokers may also find they are more likely to have a lingering foul smell in their mouth. Mouthwashes and mints may help disguise bad breath—but it won’t actually cure it!
Tobacco Products Cause Oral Cancer
The medical community has long associated the use of tobacco products with elevated health risks, particularly cancer. The risk of developing cancer on the lips, throat, tongue, and mouth is significantly higher for smokers than non-smokers. In fact, over 90% of people who develop these cancers are smokers!
If you think that chewing tobacco absolves you of these risks, then think again. Chewing smokeless tobacco products contain numerous chemicals that promote cancer and other chronic diseases as well. Since most of these products contain concentrated doses of nicotine, they become highly addictive, making it that much harder for people to quit.
Tobacco Decreases Saliva Production
It may sound trivial at first, but to your local dentist in Waterford, decreased saliva production due to tobacco intake is a serious matter. Decreased saliva productions can lead to serious oral health problems like tooth decay.
Saliva helps neutralize the acid in your mouth created by food residue. Without it, bacteria will thrive in your mouth, and your teeth are left exposed to damage!
Tobacco Causes Periodontal Problems
Tobacco intake doesn’t just affect your teeth; it can also damage the tissue that surrounds the roots of your teeth. The result is your gums shrinking away from your teeth and enlarging the gaps known as periodontal pockets. Bacteria can quickly settle into these pockets leading to gum disease and severe tissue damage.
Heavy smokers are at risk of developing periodontal disease if they continue to smoke for extended periods of time. Severe periodontal disease may lead to a lifelong and painful struggle that could easily spread to other parts of your body.
Conclusion
You already know that smoking is bad for your health. So it’s no longer a surprise to find out that cigarettes and chewing tobacco can also have adverse effects on your oral health! From stained teeth to oral cancer, the list of risks and health conditions associated with tobacco consumption is just too much for you just to ignore. If you want to maintain good oral health, consider quitting smoking and visit your dentist for a checkup.
Don’t let your smoking habits ruin your teeth and mouth. Visit the Dental House to get expert advice for all your teeth and gum-related problems. Our staff is more than happy to assist you with all your dental concerns. Experience the Dental House difference through our cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, orthodontics, and other dental care services. Book an appointment today!
