Cigarette ads used to feature models that appeared good-looking and successful, always with a cigarette in hand. However, these days it’s widely known that smoking is extremely detrimental to your overall health. Smoking leads to several physical ailments and can greatly increase your risk for cancer and other illnesses…but you may not be aware of the negative impact smoking can have on your oral health.

Tooth Discoloration

This is likely to be one of the most obvious negative impacts of smoking – smokers will often have a yellowish tint to their teeth due to the nicotine and tar in the tobacco. When these foreign substances combine with oxygen and seep into the enamel, the effects can be less than pleasant, especially when gumlines recede and stains develop on areas of the teeth that do not have thick enamel protection.

Tooth Decay

Plaque and tartar can be a problem for anyone, but smokers are especially susceptible to these issues. When buildup accumulates, the risk for decay increases – the bacteria from plaque and tartar creates an acidic environment that can eat away at the enamel, weakening teeth and causing a greater risk of cavities. Cavities and decay are linked to other major illnesses related to overall health and wellness – so the effects of smoking spread far beyond decay in just the teeth.

Gum Disease and Tooth Loss

The buildup of tartar and plaque does not just lead to tooth decay – it can also lead to gum disease. Smoking weakens the immune system, which means gums won’t heal as quickly if gum disease sets in. In severe cases, there can be a breakdown in the bone and tissue surrounding the teeth, increasing the likelihood of tooth loss. According to the CDC, smoking is a major cause of gum disease in the United States.

Bad Breath

As if the discoloration, decay, and disease weren’t enough, smoking can also lead to bad breath. The smoke itself causes a bad odor…but smoking also leads to a dry mouth and gum disease, which are two major culprits of halitosis.

Cancer

Smokers are much more likely to suffer from cancers of the mouth, throat, and esophagus, to name a few. While there are many more cancers that smokers are likely to develop, the probability of developing an oral cancer is extremely high. Smoking also lowers the ability of your immune system to fight disease, which decreases your body’s ability to fight cancer if you do get it.

The negative impact smoking can have on your oral health is significant and is not something to be taken lightly. Combine that with the impact on your overall health and you have a compelling case to quit smoking. If you are struggling to quit, seek the support and help you need to kick the habit once and for all – you will greatly improve your oral health and general health as well. If you are a smoker or former smoker and would like professional help restoring your smile, contact Dental Remedies today for a consultation.