Smoking tobacco, whether in the form of cigarettes, cigars, or pipes helps many people cope with ongoing anxiety issues without turning to prescription drugs. But tobacco use invites a dilemma–over time it can be hazardous not only to your lungs and overall health, but also to your dental health. Following are just a few ways tobacco can impact your health:
–A study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that cigar smokers had tooth and bone loss in the jawbone (which anchors teeth) at the same rate as cigarette smokers!
–Since smoking interrupts the normal cell function in gum tissue, smokers also find that they are more susceptible to oral infections. They are also slower to heal since blood flow to the gums is reduced.
–Heavy smokers find the color of their tooth enamel changing with time, turning yellowish brown, making them look older than they really are.
–And then there is smoker’s breath! To counteract tobacco breath, smokers often turn to hard candy and lozenges that end up coating their teeth and gums in sticky bacterial plaque. This can lead to gingivitis and the effects of periodontitis.
It is not easy to stop a smoking habit. But the effects can make a huge difference in one’s health. Thankfully, there are smoking cessation programs available that can help. If are ready to make a change, see your doctor to help you find a program that works for you.
Please call us at 913-685-2171 if you have any questions or concerns about your oral health. We are here to help you flash your brightest, healthiest smile!