You probably know that smoking can have a negative impact on your overall health, but did you know that tobacco use can also have an impact on your oral health? Sadly, issues resulting from tobacco use can actually be quite severe.
Smoking leads to bad breath and stained teeth. If your teeth are yellowed, our team can help you with just teeth whitening and a deep cleaning. Usually, you can address bad breath by caring from your teeth well at home, but nicotine can settle in your mouth. Once this happens, your bad breath could persist until you quit smoking. Smoking also causes dry mouth, which can make bad breath even worse.
Smoking also leads to periodontal disease, which is also referred to as gum disease. While everyone is at risk for this issue, individuals who smoke are much more prone to it. You see, tobacco can cause your gums to separate from the underlying bone, leaving you more vulnerable to infections.
The most severe issue that can come as a result of smoking is oral cancer. This form of cancer can appear anywhere in your mouth—including on your lips or throat. Men are typically more likely to have oral cancer, but it is becoming more and more common in adults. Smoking and other tobacco use leave you more likely to develop oral cancer.
Do you have more questions about how smoking could hurt your teeth? Are you interested in learning more on how you can quit smoking? Would you simply like to schedule a routine checkup with our dentist, Dr. David Tapani? If so, we invite you to give MI Beautiful Smile a call at 248-634-7002. We’re look forward to receiving your call.