World No Tobacco Day, an international gathering organized by the World Health Organization to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and smoking, happens on Friday, May 31st.
Much has been said about smoking as of late, especially in light of the UK government’s pledge to outlaw smoking in a new bill launched in April. While the dangers of smoking to general health are well-known, the ways in which it can harm one’s mouth are less so.
Dr. Smita Mehra, BDS MFGDPRCS, principal dentist at The Neem Tree Dental Practice, discusses the immediate and long-term consequences of tobacco use and smoking on dental health and provides advice on how to protect your teeth in the lead-up to World No Tobacco Day.
Effects of Smoking on Oral Health
1. Damage to Teeth and Gums
Nicotine and other harmful compounds found in tobacco products, such as e-cigarettes and smokes, can have devastating effects on oral health. When these toxins penetrate the gums, they harm the gum tissue as well as the bone underneath. This increases susceptibility to infections, a primary factor in gum disease.
The accumulation of plaque from tobacco use can harden into tartar, leading to gum inflammation, gum recession, and eventual tooth and bone loss. Such issues often necessitate costly dental treatments like implants, bridges, or dentures. Maintaining healthy natural teeth and gums is always preferable.
2. Increased Risk of Oral Cancer
It is well-known that smoking increases the risk of lung cancer, but few people realize that smoking also increases the chance of mouth cancer. Tobacco usage is the direct cause of about 25% of oral cancers in the UK. Tobacco use, whether by smoking or vaping, exposes the mouth to dangerous chemicals that can damage the tissues there, increasing the risk of oral cancer. This disease can have devastating consequences, including loss of teeth, deformity, or even death.
3. Tooth Decay
Nicotine affects tooth decay by altering the pH levels in saliva. Smoking lowers saliva’s ability to neutralize acids, creating an environment conducive to tooth decay. Bacteria can more easily erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities, tooth loss, and potentially more serious health issues.
4. Complications with Implants and Surgery
Smoking also complicates recovery from dental procedures. Cigarette smoke contains harmful compounds that lower the gums’ blood flow, which slows healing and raises the likelihood of implant failure. Insufficient blood flow can also lead to infections and prolonged recovery times. Successful implants require healthy bone integration, which is hindered by smoking.
5. Persistent Bad Breath
Smoking and tobacco use often result in halitosis, or bad breath. Although flavored vapes may mask this issue temporarily, tobacco alters the oral environment, leading to the buildup of sulfur compounds that produce an unpleasant odor.
6. Reduced Natural Defenses
Tobacco products diminish the mouth’s natural defenses by decreasing saliva production. Saliva is crucial for combating bacteria and preventing gum disease. Reduced saliva makes the mouth more vulnerable to infections and oral health issues.
7. Increased Dry Mouth and Tooth Sensitivity
When you smoke, you increase your risk of dry mouth and tooth sensitivity. When saliva production is inadequate, the mouth is unable to effectively neutralize acids and eliminate bacteria, leading to discomfort and an increased likelihood of tooth decay and cavities.
Strategies for Quitting and Protecting Oral Health
If you’re considering quitting smoking for World No Tobacco Day, there are several resources to help you:
- Nicotine Replacement Options: Utilize gum lozenges or patches.
- Support Groups: Join groups that provide advice and encouragement.
- Online Resources: Access apps, websites, and forums for support and progress tracking.
- Dental Advice: Consult your dentist for personalized guidance and support.
You may do wonders for your oral health and general wellness by giving up smoke. Taking action now will help protect your teeth and gums from the harmful effects of smoking.
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