Tobacco Use
Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of death in society. Fortunately, it is also among the most preventable. Aside from being a socially undesirable habit, tobacco use is directly linked to a wide range of oral health problems.
How does tobacco use affect the mouth?
Gum disease
Nicotine restricts blood flow to the gums, which masks the bleeding and swelling that normally signal gum disease. Tobacco users also tend to accumulate calculus (tartar) more quickly, and gum tissue heals more slowly after treatment.
Oral cancer
Tobacco users are several times more likely to develop cancer of the lips, tongue, cheeks and throat than non-users. Regular oral cancer screenings are especially important for anyone who smokes or uses smokeless tobacco.
Tooth loss & stained teeth
Nicotine and tar leave yellow and brown stains on tooth enamel. Because tobacco use accelerates periodontal disease, tobacco users also face a significantly higher risk of losing teeth.
Why is early detection so difficult for smokers?
Because nicotine constricts the blood vessels in the gums, tobacco users often show fewer visible signs of gum disease, such as bleeding, even as the infection advances beneath the surface. This allows periodontal disease to progress undetected until it has caused significant damage to the gums and jawbone.
If you use tobacco and are concerned about the health of your gums and teeth, please
contact our officePeriodontics