If you are a smoker and have been thinking about quitting, now is a good time to start. Not only will your lungs and body benefit, but did you know that your smile will improve as well?
Smoking lowers blood flow to the gums along with vitamin C absorption– which gum tissues need to stay healthy. Because smoking raises your oral temperature, it also kills important cells your mouth needs. But that’s not all. Let’s look at the effects you may already be experiencing because of this nicotine habit:
- The recession of your gums (where gum tissue pulls away from the teeth).
- Healing impairment after having any kind of oral surgery, including periodontal therapy.
- Oral cancer.
- Lesions in the mouth.
- Periodontal (gum) disease.
- Staining of your teeth and tongue.
Unfortunately, even smokeless tobacco has an increased risk of gum disease, keratosis of oral mucosa, tooth staining, bad breath, erosion of tooth enamel, jaw bone loss, cavities on the crown or root surface, and yes, tooth loss. Â Eventually, you may have trouble chewing, talking, and even find yourself reluctant to smile.
We encourage you to find a tobacco cessation program and take back your oral health! If you have any concerns about your oral health or would like to schedule a visit with our Sedona Dental Arts team in Sedona, Arizona, please call 928-282-1514 today. We look forward to helping you achieve the best oral health possible!