Tobacco use or cigarette smoking is considered one of the main culprits for most health issues. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that tobacco kills more than 8 million people in the world per year. This number is the average sum of people who were direct users or who were exposed to secondhand smoke. These deaths resulted from severe respiratory and cardiovascular diseases caused by inhaling tobacco smoke.
Aside from that, smoking also has an impact on your dental health. People who smoke regularly have an increased risk of developing mouth problems. To learn more, listed below are some of these potential issues.
Teeth Discoloration
A cigarette or a vape contains harmful elements like tobacco and nicotine. Once your teeth are exposed to them, they leave a stain that causes your teeth to have a yellowish color. It usually settles on the enamel of your teeth and eventually penetrates the dentin. This is the reason why it’s hard to remove it. But, it’s not permanent because there are ways to whiten your teeth.
Gum Recession
Another problem that you may encounter is gum recession. Tobacco irritates your gum tissue, which causes your gums to recede, exposing the roots of your teeth. As an effect, this will make you more sensitive to hot and cold food or drinks. Aside from that, you are also vulnerable to plaque and bacteria buildup, which are leading causes of tooth decay and tooth loss.
Smoker’s Keratosis
Smoker’s keratosis refers to the thick white patch that appears on the roof of your mouth. This patch looks like a tile and usually emerges with red dotted spots. It is generally painless, but it heightens your risk of developing cancer in your mouth.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a serious disease in your mouth that is often the most difficult to treat. It results from carcinogenic chemicals that cause uncontrolled mutations of abnormal cells. It usually starts in your oral cavity and spreads to other nearby tissues. Some of its symptoms include mouth ulcers that take weeks to heal, red or white patches in your mouth lining, and persistent lumps in the mouth.
Reach Out to Your Dentist
Smoking weakens your immune system and makes you susceptible to oral health issues. That is why you need to have a regular check-up with your dentist for early detection and treatment of these problems. To get in touch with a dental care provider, call Affordable Smiles. Our experts on dental health in Baton Rouge, Hammond, Gretna, Metairie, Mandeville, LA, and Gulfport, MS, are always ready to assist you.