It’s no secret that smoking has negative effects on your overall health, but did you know that it can also put you at risk of gum problems, tooth loss, complications after tooth removal and surgery in the mouth, and developing mouth cancer? If you’re not convinced yet, read on to find out just some of the many ways smoking can negatively affect your oral health. To learn more about the issues surrounding smoking and oral health, ask your local dentist llandudno!

Effects on teeth

Smoking can cause all sorts of problems for your teeth. The most common is yellowing of the teeth, but it can also lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and complications after surgery or tooth removal. smokers are also more likely to get infections and don’t heal as well as non-smokers.  Even though you know smoking isn't good for you, smoking can be a tough habit to break. If you're trying to quit, make sure you have a plan that includes things like joining a quit group with other people who want to stop smoking too or setting a date when you will stop so that quitting becomes a goal that you are working towards. 

Effects on gums

People who smoke are more likely to have gum problems. This is because smoking causes a build-up of plaque on the teeth, which can irritate the gums and cause them to become inflamed. Inflamed gums are more susceptible to infection, and they don’t heal as quickly as healthy gums. This can lead to tooth loss.

Effects on periodontal treatment

Smokers are more likely to experience complications after periodontal treatment, such as tooth removal or surgery. They also have a higher risk of developing infections and don’t heal as well as non-smokers. In addition, smokers are more likely to experience gum problems, tooth loss, and mouth cancer.

Effects on implants

If you are a smoker, you are more likely to experience complications after having dental implants placed. This is because smoking inhibits blood flow and prevents oxygen from reaching the gums, which can delay healing. In addition, smokers are more likely to develop infections at the implant site. If you are considering dental implants or even teeth whitening, quitting smoking is the best way to ensure a successful outcome.

Incidence of oral cancer

The incidence of oral cancer is high among smokers. In fact, smoking is the leading cause of oral cancer. According to research, the risk of developing oral cancer is about six times higher for smokers than for non-smokers.

Reducing the effect smoking has on your mouth

1. Quit smoking or tobacco use altogether. This is the best way to reduce the effects of smoking on your mouth.

2. If you can’t quit, cut back on how much you smoke or use tobacco.

3. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily.

4. See your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.

5. Quit using other tobacco products, like chewable tobacco, snuff, or electronic cigarettes.