Does Smoking Leads to Dental Problems?

 

                                    SMOKING AND ORAL HEALTH

Oral health, often ignored is a fundamental aspect of our overall well being. In this article we delve into significant consequences that smoking can have on your  mouth teeth and gums.

Smoking has hazardous effects on oral health. Not only it causes staining of teeth and bad breath but it has severe adverse effects on teeth gums and overall health. The chemicals like Tar and Nicotine found in cigarettes cause  permanent intrinsic discoloration in teeth. Furthermore nicotine constricts blood vessels leading to reduced blood flow to gums eventually causing  Gum Diseases. Smoking has been linked to periodontitis because it also weakens the immune system, impairing the body’s ability to repair tissues and fight infection. Smokers have twice the risk of gum disease as compared to a non smoker.

Smoking leads to dental problems, including:

·       Bad breath

·       Tooth Discoloration

·       Inflammation of the salivary gland openings on the roof of the mouth.

·       Increased buildup of plaque and tarter on the teeth.

·       Increased loss of bone within the jaw.

·       Increased risk of leukoplakia, white patches inside the mouth.

·       Increased risk of developing gum disease, a leading cause of tooth loss.

·       Delayed healing process following tooth extraction, periodontal treatment, or oral surgery

·       Lower success rate of dental Implant procedures.

·       Increased risk of developing oral cancer.

Simple, practical ways to quit smoking

Here are a few tips to help you quit smoking and improve your oral health.

·       Avoid triggers

·       Being around other people while they’re smoking can intensify your cravings.

·       Do your best to avoid people and locations where you’re tempted to smoke. Spend time at places that prohibit smoking. Don’t accompany people on their smoke breaks.

·       Keep busy

·       Staying busy and distracted can also help you manage cravings. The mind can only focus on one thing at a time. If you feel the urge to smoke, throw yourself into an activity or project.

·       Consider nicotine replacement therapy

·      Using a nicotine patch or chewing nicotine gum can reduce cravings, making it easier to give up smoking. Follow the package’s directions carefully. It’s possible to develop a nicotine dependence on these types of products.

·   If OTC products don’t work, ask your doctor about medications to help you quit smoking, like Chantix.

·       Remind yourself why you’re quitting

·       Everyone has a motivation for quitting. Some want to improve their overall health. Others do it for their family. Maybe you just want to save money.

·       Regularly reflect on why you’re giving up the habit. This can help you overcome strong urges.

·     If you find yourself lighting up, don’t beat yourself up or feel that it’s impossible to quit. Many people experience setbacks while quitting. Stay positive and get back on track.

·       Get therapy

·       Sometimes breaking a smoking habit may require behavioral therapy to overcome rituals and learn new ways to cope with problems. Therapy can help if you’re more likely to smoke when stressed or upset.

  The takeaway

Smoking can have a negative impact on your oral health, increasing your risk for gum disease,      tooth loss, bad breath, and oral cancer. The best gift you can give your teeth is to stop smoking.

 If you’re not ready to quit yet, you can still take care of your teeth. The same dental health habits apply: Make sure you brush at least twice a day and floss daily. See your dentist at least twice a year to help fight gum disease and prevent teeth stains.

Dr Sunanda Gogia, Dentist In Noida
Happy Tooth Dental Clinic
Shop.no. 9, Ground Floor, Sethi Arcade,
Opposite Mahagun Moderne, Sethi Max Royal Sector 76, Noida