How Smoking Cigarettes Impact Oral Healthcare

Many people who smoke cigarettes put their smiles at risk while also adversely harming their oral and overall health. At Arden Dental Care in Sacramento, California, we are often asked how smoking cigarettes impacts oral healthcare.

While lung cancer might be the most severe known side effect of smoking, cigarettes can also harm your teeth and mouth in general. Keep reading to learn how smoking affects your oral health and some expert tips to help you quit smoking.

The Effect of Cigarette Smoking on Your Oral Health

Stained Teeth

Smoking cigarettes can cause brown stains to appear on the tooth enamel, stains that cannot be removed by brushing alone. Once patients quit smoking cigarettes, they can discuss undergoing professional teeth whitening treatments with us to get back the shine of their smile.

Reduced Blood Oxygen 

Smoking cigarettes reduces oxygen levels in the bloodstream, causing general health issues and putting you at a higher risk of gum disease and other dental issues. 

Gum Disease Progression

Smoking can increase the risk of gum disease progression and lead to tooth and soft tissue loss.

Foul Breath

Smoking is one of the leading causes of foul breath, which in turn, can make you feel self-conscious during your interactions with others.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer has become widespread in recent years, and smokers are at a higher risk because tobacco contains harmful chemicals. 

Gum Sensitivity

Tobacco in cigarettes can irritate the gum tissue, increasing the likelihood of receding gums. It can also cause sensitivity, making it uncomfortable to eat hot or cold foods.

How to Stop Smoking?

Regardless of how long you have been smoking tobacco or using tobacco products, it is not always easy to quit. But, with focus and determination, you can stop smoking without much struggle. Here are some expert tips to help you:  

Stop doing things that make you want to smoke. For instance, avoid parties and restaurants for a while.

If you feel like smoking, try to postpone it and tell your brain you will do it later. Meanwhile, chew on some sugar-free gum or candy to keep yourself busy.

Physical exercises can prevent tobacco cravings, even light activities like running up and down the stairs. 

If you are considering quitting smoking and improving your overall and dental health, visit Arden Dental Care at 1832 Avondale Ave Ste 1, Sacramento, CA 95825, or call us at (916) 481-2001.