How tobacco usage affects your oral health

Posted on 1/15/2024 by Weo Admin

Woman smoking steps away from Beaverton Oral Surgeons in Hillsboro, OR

Vaping might seem like a better option than smoking, am here to convince you otherwise. People who smoke, tobacco or vaping are at higher risk of gum problems, tooth loss, and other complications later in life. This is because they are at risk of suffering from mouth cancer and dry mouths. In case of infections or sores, they are not going to heal as easily as non-smokers. More ways in which tobacco affects your oral health are mentioned below.

Smoking and periodontal disease

Smoking causes periodontal diseases that destroy the jawbone and the surrounding teeth. Periodontal diseases are caused by bacteria and food debris that remain on the surface of the teeth after meals, that is, if you do not brush and floss your teeth properly. If the plaque is left on the teeth, it hardens to form calculus, also referred to as tartar. For people who smoke, the tar from the tobacco also coats the teeth irritating the surrounding teeth.

Smoking and slow healing after dental operations

Tobacco users have a generally weak immune system. This makes it hard for their bodies to facilitate the healing process. This is because smoking leads to a dry socket which is a slow-healing tooth socket that is painful. Also, tobacco smokers might have increased pain after oral surgeries and the implant success rates are very small in percentage.

Smoking and mouth cancer

One of the main risk factors for mouth cancer is smoking and vaping. Mouth cancer affects the lips, cheeks, tongue, gum, and the floors of the mouth. A larger number of people who smoke are diagnosed with mouth cancer annually. We are talking about a staggering 746 Victorians.

In conclusion, it is never too late to quit smoking. This will reduce the chances of acquiring the diseases above. However, if quitting is not part of your plans, reduce the intake. It is also important to note that early diagnosis is the best remedy for such diseases. Visit our offices today for diagnosis and treatment purposes.

Hillsboro

400 E Main St Ste 120, Hillsboro, OR 97123
Hillsboro, OR 97123-4163
(503) 646-7101

Beaverton

3925 SW 153rd Drive #100
Beaverton, OR 97003
(503) 646-7101

Hours

Mon - Thu: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday: 8:00am - 2:00pm

New Patient Forms

Request Appointment

Study Club

Beaverton Oral Surgeons, 3925 SW 153rd Dr. Suite # 100, Beaverton, OR 97006 + (503) 646-7101 + beavertonoralsurgeons.com + 10/4/2024 + Page Phrases: Oral Surgery Beaverton +