What Happens to Your Oral Health When You Smoke?

While smoking is vastly known for being bad for your oral health, the underlying consequences can be much more severe than one could imagine. According to dentists in 33304, tooth loss is one of the most common health impacts of smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products. People who smoke also have more tartar on their teeth than nonsmokers, which can contribute to gum disease.  

Quitting smoking is the best way to improve your oral health. If you want to know your options, talk to your doctor or dentist about what would work best for you. If you want to learn more about the effects of smoking on your oral health, check out these facts.

The Effects of Smoking on Teeth and Gums  

Periodontal Disease  

Periodontal disease is caused by the build-up of plaque, hardened tartar, and other harmful bacteria on the teeth and along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that sticks to the different surfaces of your mouth. If plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar, which can irritate and inflame gums.  

Smoking makes it harder to remove plaque and tartar. It also decreases saliva production, which helps protect teeth from decay. These harmful bacteria can irritate your teeth and gums, causing them to develop periodontal disease.  

Tooth Decay  

One common consequence of smoking is tooth decay. Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that eat away at tooth enamel. The acidic nature of smoke also contributes to tooth decay. Smoking also decreases the production of saliva, which helps protect teeth from decay.  

Oral Cancer  

Oral cancer is a severe health concern for smokers. Smoking cigars and tobacco exposes you to dangerous chemicals that create mutations in the healthy cells of your mouth and throat, increasing your risk of developing oral cancer. The risk of developing oral cancer increases with the amount of tobacco smoked and the length of time a person has been smoking.  

Are You Looking for a Reliable Dentist in 33304?    

If you smoke, you must see a dentist regularly for oral health exams. Here at 1500 Dental, our team can provide you with the help and care needed to quit smoking. Give us a call today and get started on your treatment!