The Impact of Smoking on Oral Health

Most people are aware that smoking is bad for you. There is a strong connection between smoking and lung cancer deaths, a relationship that is commonly known. Your lungs are far from the only part of you that is negatively affected by smoking. It also takes a massive toll on your oral health.

Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, has two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. It’s the result of an infection that destroys the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. Smoking leads to higher rates of dental plaque development. When that plaque is left on the teeth, it hardens and turns into tartar, also known as calculus. This irritates the gums and leaves them vulnerable to infection. As the infection worsens, the teeth may loosen or even fall out. Depending on the damage, the dentist may have to extract the teeth as well.

Slower Healing

Your immune system is your body’s way of fighting infections. Unfortunately, tobacco and its products can hinder the immune system, leaving you vulnerable to infection and making it more difficult to heal from mouth injuries or dental procedures. You are more likely to experience dry socket after tooth removal and greater pain after oral surgery. Dental implants are also less likely to be successful. Because of this, you should always let your dentist know if you smoke. That way they can make adjustments to your treatment plans as needed.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can affect your lips, tongue, cheek, and the floor or roof of your mouth. Smokers are more likely to experience oral cancer on the side of the tongue, floor of the mouth, and lips. Persistent ulcers, white or red patches in the mouth, swelling, or dentures suddenly not fitting properly are all symptoms of oral cancer. If you consume alcohol in addition to smoking, your risk is even higher. The good news is that quitting lowers your risk. After a while, it can be the same as those who have never smoked.

Smoking can wreak havoc on your oral health. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do to protect the health of every part of your mouth. Fortunately, the human body can be impressively resilient. Quitting can lead to significant improvements in oral health, even if you’ve been smoking for a long time. Remember to see your dentist regularly so you can keep your mouth, teeth, and gums as healthy as possible along your journey.

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