The effects of smoking and the impact on your lungs or respiratory system are commonly discussed and referenced. And just about everywhere. However, the effect of smoking on the teeth is generally left out or condensed to an afterthought. The effect of smoking and your teeth goes beyond just the yellowing of your smile; it can cause serious complications and increase your risk of oral cancers.
Oral cancer can be aggressive and spread quickly due to the number of blood vessels in your head and neck and the proximity to the lymph nodes. While the use of tobacco has been on the decline, approximately 15% of all Americans still smoke. In addition to tradition tobacco products, new electronic cigarettes have hit the market and promise the same physical joys of smoking without the dangerous carcinogens.
However, do e-cigarettes protect your oral health?
Keep on reading, and we will unpack how smoking traditional tobacco products harms your teeth as well as the impact of new technologies.
Smoking and your mouth
The most obvious evidence that someone is a smoker is looking at the color of their teeth. Smoker’s teeth are normally yellow and stained by the chemical found in cigarettes that cling to the enamel on your teeth. These stains are deeply ingrained and aren’t reversible, even with whitening treatments or daily brushing. The breath of a smoker is also distinguishable—even from embarrassingly far away—since particle of a cigarette remain in the mouth long after you are done smoking. These particles can dry out your mouth, too, which causes bacteria to multiply. Lack of salvia spurs bacteria to attach to the teeth and gum line, which can cause periodontal diseases.
Smokers are twice as likely to have gum disease as nonsmokers. When gums become infected they can recede, pull away from the teeth and cause the underlying bones to deteriorate. Once gum disease leads to bone loss, it is likely teeth will begin to fall out. This is why many smokers have multiple missing teeth.
Oral cancer
The most severe complication that can occur as a consequence to smoking is oral cancer. It is estimated that 80% of those diagnosed with oral cancer are also smokers. Early symptoms include swelling or lumps around your mouth, red or white lesions in your mouth, numbness and trouble moving your jaw when talking or eating. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important you seek medical care.
Electronic cigarettes
Since smoking and teeth have been proven to been “not compatible,” some tobacco users have transitioned to using electronic devices that produce a nicotine-loaded aerosol that is inhaled by the user. These devices have received quite a bit of attention over the past few years as health professionals determine if they are harmful. While these products do have the potential to reduce tobacco use, it is important to remember that no product you inhale is guaranteed safe.
From the oral perspective, using e-cigarettes still brings your mouth into contact with nicotine. This can reduce blood flow to the mouth and cause tissues to lose oxygen and nutrients. When blood vessels contract, it can cause gum line recession. Vaping can also lead to dry mouth which allows bad bacteria to multiply and result in cavities or other infections. If you choose to use e-cigarettes to transition away from smoking, it is important you tell your dentist and continue to make regular appointments. Your dentist will be able to spot signs of periodontal disease proactively and before issues become more serious.
Smoking and healthy gums and teeth are non-compatible. In other words, to preserve the health of your mouth it’s important to stop smoking. We understand the huge challenge quitting can be, and we encourage you to get in contact with us for support. We can provide resources and help you in your journey.
Emergency
Patient Forms
Contact Us