Tobacco

It goes without saying that smoking is bad for your health.  But it is especially bad for your teeth and your dental health.

Periodontal or gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults, and recent studies are showing that it may be a cause of heart disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes.  But it is also alarming that, according to a study published by the Journal of Periodontology, smoking may be responsible for more than half of the cases of periodontitis among adults.  It further found that...

...current smokers are about four times more likely to have advanced periodontal disease than people who have never smoked.

From a purely cosmetic standpoint, smoking is probably the number one cause of dirty, dark, stained teeth, making smokers teeth and smiles look as much as ten years older than they really are.

Smokeless tobacco users are also at a higher risk of gum disease.  Those who chew tobacco have a greater risk of rapidly progressing periodontal disease and receding gums, increasing the likelihood of root cavities and bone loss.  They also have a much greater risk of developing oral cancer.

The good news

There is good news for tobacco users:  oral health begins to improve immediately after a smoker gives up the habit.  In fact, studies have shown that 11 years after quitting, former tobacco users chances of having periodontal disease is about the same as for those who have never smoked.  These human bodies are amazing things.

If you have questions regarding tobacco and your oral health, or if you are interested in kicking the habit, please take a moment to call Lindy, our scheduling coordinator.  We have a smoke cessation program that just might help you overcome the smoking habit and regain your oral health and a bright smile once and for all.  And that is where you will really discover “The Power of Your Smile”.