Most people would agree that smoking is a not a great habit to have. It’s not just antisocial, it’s also well-known that smoking can cause many different medical problems, and in some cases, fatal diseases. However, many people still don’t realise the damage that smoking also does to mouth, teeth and gums.
The most visual effect of smoking is staining on the teeth due to the nicotine and tar hiding in tobacco. Smokers’ teeth soon become discoloured and for long-term heavy smokers their once-pearly whites can turn almost brown.
Smoking not only causes bad breath but is a major factor in gum disease and inflammation around the teeth. Over time, this can affect the bone and tissues that support the teeth and can cause them to become loose, and in advanced cases, may result in tooth loss.
The gums are affected because smoking creates a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream, so infected gums don’t heal properly. Smoking also causes people to produce more dental plaque and as a consequence allows gum disease to progress more quickly than in non-smokers.
Whilst most people are aware that smoking is known to cause lung and throat cancer, many still don’t know that it’s one of the main causes of mouth cancer. Mouth cancer is on the rise, especially amongst younger people, and according to the Oral Health Foundation almost 7,800 new cases of mouth cancer are diagnosed in the UK each year.
Stoptober – make it your motivation to stop
We’re here to help you
Giving up smoking is never easy but just think about the long-term benefits it will bring to you and your family. Regular checks and hygiene appointments can help keep track on the effects of smoking, but this cannot work on its own and only giving up can truly eradicate the dangers.
At Ringley Park Dental Practice in Reigate we are here to support you in every way possible to help you give up smoking. Why not give us a call today on 01737 240123 for a check-up with your dentist and to get friendly and helpful advice on how to quit smoking for good.
