Smoking is a harmful habit that not only affects your lungs but can also cause damage to your oral health. Many people in Marietta, Georgia at West Cobb are not aware of the risks smoking poses to their teeth and gums. As a dental office, Sage Dental in Marietta, Georgia at West Cobb wants to educate the community on the link between smoking and oral health.
Smoking can cause several oral health problems, such as bad breath, stained teeth, and gum disease. The chemicals in cigarette smoke cause plaque and tartar buildup on teeth and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Gum disease is a severe condition that can result in tooth loss and damage to the jawbone.
Smoking also affects the body’s ability to heal, which can make it more challenging to treat gum disease or other dental issues. The immune system is weakened, which makes it harder for the body to fight off infections in the mouth. This can lead to complications during dental procedures, such as extractions or implants.
Additionally, smoking can cause oral cancer, a potentially fatal condition. According to the American Cancer Society, smokers are six times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-smokers. Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, throat, and other parts of the mouth.
The good news is that quitting smoking can significantly improve your oral health. After quitting, your risk of developing gum disease decreases, and the body’s ability to fight off infections improves. Your breath will also smell better, and your teeth will be less stained.
If you are a smoker, it is essential to schedule regular dental checkups to monitor your oral health. Your dentist can help you identify any oral health issues caused by smoking and recommend treatments or lifestyle changes to improve your oral health.
At Sage Dental in Marietta, Georgia at West Cobb, we encourage all our patients to quit smoking to protect their oral health. Here are some tips to help you quit smoking:
- Set a quit date and stick to it.
- Use nicotine replacement therapy, such as patches or gum, to help with cravings.
- Seek support from friends, family, or a support group.
- Avoid triggers that may make you want to smoke, such as alcohol or stressful situations.
- Consider talking to your doctor about prescription medication that can help you quit smoking.
Smoking is a dangerous habit that can cause significant damage to your oral health. If you are a smoker, it is essential to take steps to quit smoking and protect your teeth and gums. Regular dental checkups can help monitor your oral health and identify any issues caused by smoking. At Sage Dental in Marietta, Georgia at West Cobb, we are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal oral health and providing them with the education and tools they need to make informed decisions about their dental health.
