Smoking and Its Dangers for Oral Health

Everyone knows that smoking is dangerous for your lungs and heart. It can lead to diabetes and other serious illnesses. But did you know that smoking, and all forms of oral tobacco use, can seriously impact the health of your teeth and gums? Our dentist in Beverly Hills wants you to be aware that smoking hurts more than your body; it can hurt your teeth, as well.

The nicotine and other chemicals in cigarette smoke can cause significant oral damage. Of course, the greatest danger is oral cancer. Oral cancer is a leading cause of disfigurement and death among smokers and other oral tobacco users. Smoking can also lead to periodontal or gum disease, which is a common reason for tooth loss. Smokers are also at a higher risk after oral surgery, because their healing processes tend to be slower. Less dangerous, but very common complains are bad breath, stained teeth, and a lowering of the sense of taste and smell.
It is very clear that smoking is harmful to your teeth and gums, and regular dental exams are vital to trace the course of problems caused to your teeth by tobacco.

Our Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist can offer you all the preventative and restorative treatments you need to mitigate the damage caused by smoking. Of course, quitting is the best option, but in the meantime, be sure you get regular checkups with our dentist.

A regular dental exam will help you spot problems early. Many oral cancers are found by dentists at exam time, so be sure to keep your scheduled appointments, at least twice a year.

A regular dental cleaning will also help you overcome the staining of the teeth that generally goes with smoking. You might also consider a whitening treatment to give your teeth back that lustrous white shine.

If you need restorative dentistry treatments, such as root canals and cavity fillings, or dental surgery such as implants to replace lost teeth, do not delay. Most treatments have a far greater success rate when they are performed early.

Periodontal treatments may be necessary to counteract the problems caused by smoking, as well. Visit our dentist today to discover the ways in which you can preserve your oral health if you are a smoker.

Source: Dentist Beverly Hills

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