Effects of Smoking on Your Oral Health

Smoking has many short and long-term adverse effects on your general health, but did you know it affects your oral health as well? The use of tobacco products in cigarettes, cigars, pipes and even vapes can have detrimental effects on the health of your gums, soft tissues, teeth and throat. 

Listed below are the many ways smoking can, and will, affect your oral health.

Increased risk of oral and throat cancers

Smoking puts a person at a much higher risk for cancers of the mouth and throat. Common spots include the gums, cheeks, tongue, floor of the mouth and the soft palate. Harmful chemicals in tobacco that lead to cell mutations cause oral cancer. Cancers are by far the most severe risk from smoking. 

Stained and discoloured teeth 

A tale as old as time, we know that smoking causes yellowing teeth. This is due to the ingredients in tobacco entering the small tubules within your enamel, staining your teeth from the inside.

Bad breath

This is caused by your mouth drying out and bacteria accumulation on the surface of your tongue.

Reduced ability to smell and taste 

Smoking reduces your ability to smell and taste by dulling your senses properly.

Increased formation of tartar build-up

Due to the drying action of smoking, tartar will build up heavier above and below your gum line.

Higher risk of gum disease 

When there is heavier tartar buildup, there is a higher risk of gum disease. People who smoke are twice as likely to experience some form of gum disease, which includes gum inflammation, recession, bone loss and even tooth loss.

Likelihood of cavities 

Due to the accumulation of oral bacteria, you are much more likely to have cavities form.

Weakened healing in the mouth

Your mouth will take longer to heal when experiencing trauma, including canker sores, infections and dental surgery. 

We encourage you to quit smoking as soon as possible. If you continue to smoke, please be sure to brush and floss your teeth each day, use a toothpaste that contains fluoride to prevent cavities, a mouthwash before bed and see your dentist at least every six months for a check-up and cleaning. We encourage you to contact us today if you have any questions about the effects of smoking on your oral health.