Smoking is an easily accessible form of enjoyment and stress relief for many. Unfortunately, smoking poses several risks to your overall health and your oral health specifically. We understand that for many, quitting is something they cannot or do not want to do. That’s why we want to break down the risks of smoking and present strategies to help you kick the habit.
Illnesses & Disease
The harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke impede blood flow to the gums. This affects their ability to fight infections. This weakened immune response makes smokers more susceptible to periodontal diseases. If smoking continues, smokers will experience inflammation, receding gums, and eventual tooth loss. Further, smoking also increases the risk of oral cancers.
Aesthetics
Smoking stains teeth, contributes to persistent bad breath, and causes gum recession. The heat from smoking, along with the chemicals, can damage the soft tissues of the mouth and increase the likelihood of oral cancer. While teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry treatments can help to lift the aesthetic stains left behind by smoking, it cannot undo the damage that smoking does to your teeth and the soft tissues. Smoking also makes it more difficult to treat these conditions when they flair up.
Tips When Quitting
Adopt good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, to support the recovery of oral health. If you’re struggling to quit through at-home methods like nicotine gum, nicotine patches, or meditation, seek professional help. Counseling and nicotine replacement therapy can aid in overcoming the challenges of quitting.
Modern, Comprehensive Dental Care in Grafton, MA
If you’re seeking help restoring your smile during or after quitting smoking, give Grafton Dental Care a call to schedule your appointment! We would love to treat you in our modern, judgment-free office.
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