Smoking can lead to tooth loss, gum disease, tooth staining and even mouth cancer.
Although many people are now aware smoking is bad for our health, most don’t realise the damage smoking can cause to our teeth, gums and mouth.
Smoking can lead to tooth loss, gum disease, tooth staining and even mouth cancer.
Smoking causes a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream which means infected gums don’t heal. The blood circulation in the mouth decreases making it harder for our body to fight potential infections. Severe gum disease is called Periodontitis. This is more likely to occur in smokers who produce bacterial plaque, due to the combination of chemicals in tobacco, which can lead to gum disease.
Smoking can cause redness and tenderness in gums, blood when brushing and flossing, pain when chewing, puss oozing between teeth, receding gum line and loosening of teeth.
Our saliva flow can decrease also and this is the body’s natural wash and antibacterial break down against plaque build up (bacteria) and dry mouth. These symptoms can also lead to damaged enamel and loss of teeth.
The nicotine and tar in tobacco can lead to teeth staining yellow in colour and for heavy smokers, over time, can be nearly brown in colour. It may also give you bad breath.
Not only can smoking lead to throat and lung cancer it can also raise the risk of mouth cancer.
Mouth piercings are a popular form of self-expression, but they come with dental risks. Fortunately, with proper care you can minimise these risks and keep your teeth healthy.
The holiday season can be tough on your family's dental health with all the sugary treats. Here are simple tips to protect those smiles while enjoying the festive fun.
Did you know that allergies can also affect your oral health? Symptoms include tooth pain, dry mouth, bad breath and swollen gums and throat. Read on to learn more.