The Impact of Tobacco and Cigarettes on Oral Health
Tobacco and cigarettes do no good to our health, and despite knowing the health hazards, many of the people overlook the consequences. You will be shocked to know that cigarettes contain over 60 cancer-causing agents and tobacco, on the other hand, contains 28 cancer-causing chemicals.
While cigarettes are notorious for causing lung disease and lung cancer, it is also associated with causing oral cancer. In this blog, we will discuss how these bad habits can affect one’s entire oral health, and what measures one should take to curb the ill effects caused due to it.
1. Stained Teeth & Bad Breath
Tar and nicotine present in cigarettes and tobacco, respectively, are known for impacting teeth’s whiteness. These harmful chemicals not only turn the teeth yellow but also lead to bad breath.
2. Leads to Gum Disease
Both smoking and chewing tobacco affect the attachment of bone and soft tissue of the teeth. It hinders the functioning of gum tissue cells and restricts blood flow to the gums, thereby causing inflamed gums, receding gums, loose teeth, and eventually, tooth loss.
3. High Risk of Oral Cancer
As per the aforementioned statistics, we are sure that you’re not surprised to know how badly tobacco and cigarettes can impact one’s life. Both these addictions are the leading cause of oral cancer which affects one’s lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and throat. The doctors say, the more you smoke or chew, the greater the risk.
4. Slow Healing
Smoking weakens the body's ability to heal, and due to the slow healing process, the wound and lesions in the mouth take longer to recover. The slow recovery time can lead to infection or invite further complications, especially after dental procedures.
5. Other ill-effects
Dry mouth: The saliva present in the mouth plays a major role in washing away the cavity-causing bacteria. So when the mouth remains dry, there’s a high probability of increased tooth decay and infections.
Affecting the sense of taste and smell: Despite the infection and tooth trouble, chewing tobacco and smoking also refrain one from enjoying their favorite foods and beverages.
Increased plaque and tartar buildup: While dry mouth also leads to cavities, the persistent habit of cigarettes and chewing tobacco makes the condition even worse. So much so that the increased plaque and tartar buildup leads to gum disease.
Weakens the jawbone: Persistent smoking and consumption of tobacco can lead to tooth loss. The impact is so bad that it can also make wearing dentures difficult.
Measures to curb the ill effects:
Try to Quit: The body function normalizes, the moment a person decides to quit tobacco and cigarettes. This drastically reduces the risk of gum diseases and oral cancer.
Regular Dental Visits: Visit a dentist every six months for checkups and professional cleanings. In case there are lesions or patches in the mouth, early detection will lead to quick actions.
Oral Hygiene: Maintain oral hygiene by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Also, consider using an antibacterial mouthwash on a daily basis.
If you are a resident of Pondicherry and are looking for the best treatment for nicotine addiction in Pondicherry, then we are here to support you on your journey to a healthier smile. Schedule an appointment today!