The effects of smoking extend into every part of your body, including your teeth. If you’ve been looking for motivation on your journey to quitting smoking, reading this is a great place to start. The following information sheds light on the adverse effects that smoking can have on your oral health.
Plaque and Tartar Buildup
Did you know that smokers develop more tartar on their teeth, putting them at a higher risk of developing gum disease? It’s due to the fact that the chemicals in tobacco products impact the saliva in your mouth; this makes it easier for oral bacteria to stay on your teeth and gums. If the plaque isn’t removed, it can lead to tartar which requires our dentist in Skokie, Il to remove. Smokers are 3-6x more likely to develop gum disease than non-smokers.
Impacts Blood Circulation
Smoking also impacts the functionality of gum tissue that can cause infections. It also impacts healing time following procedures like inserting a dental implant or a tooth extraction. As you can imagine, this can be extremely frustrating and painful to the patient if healing time is taking longer than normal. Additionally, smokers may notice that their gums bleed easily when they are brushing or flossing.
The Potential for Oral Cancer
WebMD notes that about 90 percent of people who have been diagnosed with cancer of the mouth have a history of smoking or tobacco use. Simply avoiding these products in the first place can help ensure you are living a healthier life.
Our team at Chicago Dental Arts cares about your oral health and your overall health! Schedule an appointment with our dentist in Skokie, Il today.
