Smoking is not only detrimental to overall health but can take a particularly nasty toll on a person’s mouth. From the appearance of teeth to the health of gums and even the risk of serious diseases, smoking’s effects on oral health are substantial.
Today, we’re delving into the ways that smoking can negatively influence your oral health.
Smoking and Oral Health
Smoking wreaks havoc on both teeth and gums. It affects the gums by limiting blood flow and hindering the body's ability to fight infection. This increases the risk of gum disease, which, in severe cases, can result in tooth loss. Additionally, smoking weakens tooth enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay and cavities.
This combination of compromised gums and weakened enamel makes smokers more likely to encounter dental problems.
Smoking Exacerbates Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep due to airway blockages, can be exacerbated by smoking. Smoking irritates the throat's tissues, contributing to inflammation and narrowing of the airways.
Tobacco Products Stain Teeth
Both smoking and smokeless tobacco products are notorious for causing unsightly tooth discoloration. The tar and nicotine in tobacco adhere to tooth enamel, leading to yellow or brown stains. Over time, these stains become increasingly difficult to remove, resulting in a visibly discolored smile that can adversely affect self-confidence.
Smoking Elevates the Risk of Oral Cancer
One of the most concerning consequences of smoking is its link to oral cancer. Smokers are at a significantly higher risk of developing mouth, throat, lips, and tongue cancers. This, of course, is to say nothing of the lungs!
The carcinogenic substances in tobacco directly damage the DNA in oral cells, increasing the likelihood of malignant growth. If you're a smoker, seeking professional guidance and making efforts to quit can be hugely beneficial to both your oral and overall health.
In the meantime, as detecting oral cancer at an early stage significantly increases the odds of successful treatment, make sure you’re visiting your dentist regularly for dental checkups with oral cancer screenings.
Promoting Oral Health and Fighting the Effects of Smoking in Woodland Hills, CA
If you’re in Woodland Hills and looking for a dentist adept at both providing preventive care and fighting the negative effects of smoking on the teeth gums, contact dentist Dr. Gabe Adorjan and the Modern American Dentistry team to schedule a consultation!