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.
In general, the recommendation is that you should change your toothbrush every three to four months to maintain a consistent level of oral hygiene. But for many of us, we hardly keep track of when we last changed our toothbrush. Before you realise it, months have passed and your toothbrush starts looking a little worn. […]
Bruxism is the involuntary grinding, clenching, and gnashing of the teeth. It can cause issues with your teeth and jaw. This condition usually affects people when they are sleeping, however, it can also happen when you are awake.
Whether it's toothbrushing techniques or the need for regular dental visits, it's important to encourage kids to understand the importance of dental care and prioritise their own teeth cleaning. With the right approach and consistent practice, you can ensure your child continues to have good dental hygiene for the long-term!