We all know that smoking is detrimental to our general health.  Did you know smoking is also harmful to our oral health?  Very few of us know what smoking does to our mouth.  Any type of tobacco use, including smoking, can cause many long-term, non- reversible dental issues. Smoking and any tobacco use can lead to gum disease, bone loss, chronic inflammation of the gums and loss of teeth.  The heat and the chemicals found in tobacco interferes with the normal function of the tissue cells, it can damage/ burn the tissue causing inflammation, which can lead to death of the cells, loss of the bone from constant irritation and then to the loss of teeth.  Smoking and tobacco use can also contribute to the following:

 

  • Increased risk of developing gum disease
  • Increased risk for developing oral cancer
  • Increased bone loss
  • Decreases the success rate for dental implants
  • Loss of teeth
  • Bad breath
  • Discolored and stained teeth
  • Delayed healing following any oral surgery
  • Dry mouth

According to the American Cancer Society about 90% of people with cancer of the mouth, lip, tongue and throat have used tobacco.  People who have used tobacco are 4-6 times more likely to develop these types of cancer.  Here at our Golden, CO dentist we try to educate our community about the risks of smoking, hoping to stop and avoid any type of tobacco use.  Decrease you chances!

Say No to Tobacco!