Many people are aware of the link between smoking and general health conditions, such as strokes, respiratory diseases and lung cancer, but have you ever stopped to think how smoking could impact your oral health?

Smoking and oral health

Smoking has negative implications for both general and oral health. Smoking affects the aesthetic of the smile as well as increasing the risk of potentially serious oral diseases.

Smoking and gum disease

Smoking increases your risk of developing gum disease because smokers are prone to plaque development. Plaque is a sticky film made from saliva, food debris and bacteria, which is the main risk factor for gum disease and decay. Smokers are also more likely to develop advanced gum disease, as smoking makes the symptoms worse. This is because smoking reduces blood flow (and subsequently, the transportation of oxygen) to the gums, increasing recovery times and slowing down the healing process.

Smoking and oral cancer

Smoking is a major risk factor for oral cancer, a form of cancer that affects the soft tissue in the mouth and throat. People who smoke are up to five times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-smokers. If you smoke and drink alcohol on a regular basis, this increases to 30 times. Cancer Research UK estimates that 65 percent of cases of oral and pharyngeal cancers are associated with smoking.

Smoking and bad breath

Smoking is one of the most common causes of bad breath, also known as halitosis. It can also contribute to stained teeth, which look unhealthy and unattractive.

Quitting smoking

If you would like advice on how to quit smoking, we would be happy to help. We are here to provide information and offer support and reassurance to help you give up for good. Our dentists and dental hygienists have extensive experience in this field, so why not give us a call and book a consultation?