Smoke is a well-known hazard to health, causing many diseases and health conditions. Smoking has many harmful consequences, one of the most serious being its effect on oral health as advised by a dental clinic Akron, OH. So, this blog is going to be focusing on how smoking affects your oral health in Akron, OH, where people are trying to live a healthy life. This article looks at how smoking can affect your teeth and gums in different ways and offers prevention and treatment tips.
How Smoking Affects Dental Health
Increased Risk of Gum Disease
One major cause of gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is smoking. Chemicals found in tobacco products are harmful to gums and may lead to inflammation, infection, and destruction of the tissues that support the teeth. Smokers are at a higher risk of gum disease, and the disease tends to progress more quickly in people who smoke.
Tooth Discoloration
Tobacco products contain nicotine and tar which stains your teeth and gives them a yellowish discoloration. Porcelain veneers and dental bonding can help cover up yellowing, brown teeth that develop with years of habitual smoking and are difficult to whiten with regular enamel brushing and flossing. This staining not only impacts aesthetics but can also result in decreased confidence and self-worth.
Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, is a common complaint among smokers. Tobacco comes in a variety of forms and the bacteria in the mouth add to this problem. Regular smoking can hinder your efforts to keep fresh breath through good oral hygiene.
Delayed Healing
Smoking impacts the body’s healing process, including in the mouth. Delayed healing and greater risk of complications for smokers after dental work, including extractions, implants, or gum surgery. This can cause the wound to remain uncomfortable longer and increase the chance of infection.
Increased Risk of Oral Cancer
One important risk factor for oral cancer is smoking. Tobacco products contain chemicals that have the potential to alter the DNA in the cells of the mouth and contribute to the development of tumors and cancers. However, smokers are at an elevated risk of mouth, throat,t and esophagus cancers compared to non-smokers, she noted.
Prevention and Treatment
The most important step to prevent and treat smoking homelessness is to know its negative effects on oral health. Here are some tips to help keep your teeth healthy in Akron, OH:
- Quit Smoking: The best preventive measure for smoking-related oral health conditions is quitting smoking. Akron, OH offers a lot of resources to help individuals quit, such as support groups, counseling, and nicotine replacement therapies. The sooner you quit the more you can improve and recover from the damage to your oral and overall health.
- Professional Teeth Cleaning: Hence, professional teeth cleaning helps remove the stains caused by smoking that may have not gone with toothpaste and mouthwash and also reduces plaque and tartar on your teeth. Regular cleanings can enhance the appearance of teeth and help preserve healthy gums.
- Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet full of vitamins and minerals is essential for oral health. High-calcium, vitamin C-rich, and nutrient-filled foods strengthen your teeth and gum and enhance their resistance against the harmful effects of smoking.
By raising the risk of gum disease, tooth discoloration, foul breath, delayed healing, oral cancer, and reduced senses, smoking has a significant negative influence on oral health. Akron, Ohio residents need to be aware of these hazards to take preventative measures for their oral health. Maintaining a healthy mouth requires quitting smoking, getting regular dental checkups, getting your teeth professionally cleaned, practicing proper oral hygiene, and eating a balanced diet.
