Tobacco use and smoking cause a host of issues with your overall health as well as your oral health. Your team at White Park Dental shares some of the most significant consequences you face when you choose to smoke or use tobacco products.
Periodontal Disease
Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is an infection of the support system for your teeth, which is your gums and jawbone. If this condition is left untreated, it will eventually destroy your soft tissues and bone, which results in tooth loss.
Smoking increases your risk of developing gum disease and also makes it more difficult to treat your condition and heal properly.
Staining and Discoloration
Tobacco leaves a stubborn yellow or brown film on your teeth that is hard to clean with brushing alone. A thorough professional cleaning or teeth whitening is often required to eliminate the staining caused by smoking. Tobacco use also contributes to dry mouth and bad breath.
Oral Cancer
Did you know that oral cancer is responsible for deaths the equivalent of one person every hour of every day? These numbers are staggering, and they have not improved much over the years mostly because oral cancer is often not detected until its later stages.
Those who smoke or use tobacco products are at 15 times greater risk for developing oral cancer than those who don't use tobacco. Quitting smoking may just save your life in the long run.
Contact Our Concord, NH Office Today!
If you need support or information regarding quitting smoking, your team at White Park Dental can help! Our dentists are informative and supportive and have lots of ideas and advice on how to eliminate tobacco from your life. If you're ready to make changes, contact White Park Dental in Concord, NH – we are happy to help support you!