Smoking

Use of any tobacco product can increase your risk of developing oral cancer and gum disease. Tobacco products damage your gum tissue by affecting the attachment of bone and soft tissue to your teeth. An example of the effect is receding gums. A receding gum line exposes the tooth roots and increases your risk of developing a sensitivity to hot and cold, or tooth decay in these unprotected areas.

Smoking can delay healing after a tooth extraction or other oral surgery. Smoking also can contribute to bad breath, stains on your teeth and tongue, and a build-up of tartar on your teeth.

What about cigars?

Cigars are not a safe alternative to cigarettes. Even if you do not inhale cigar smoke, you're still at risk for oral and throat cancer. Like cigarette smokers, cigar smokers are at increased risk for gum disease which is a leading cause of tooth loss. In addition to the health risks, cigar smoke can cause staining of the teeth and tongue as well as bad breath.

What about smokeless tobacco products?

Like cigars and cigarettes, smokeless tobacco products contain a variety of toxins associated with cancer. At least 28 cancer-causing chemicals have been identified in smokeless tobacco products.

Smokeless tobacco can irritate your gum tissue, causing it to recede or pull away from your teeth. Once this gum tissue recedes, the roots of your teeth are exposed, increasing your risk for tooth decay. The roots of your teeth also may become sensitive to hot and cold or other irritants, which means you could experience some discomfort when eating or drinking.

Sugars, often added to enhance the flavour of smokeless tobacco, which can increase your risk for tooth decay. Smokeless tobacco also typically contains sand and grit, which can wear down your teeth.

At Dentistry Asleep®,Dr. Kevin Dann offers dental hygiene services, routine dental care for adults and children, periodontal and endodontic therapy,  cosmetic dental procedures and dental implants. Dr. Dann is one of the few Certified Specialists in Dental Anaesthesia, giving complete, comfortable care to all his valued patients. Enjoy experienced, anxiety-free dental healthcare!  Make your appointment now!

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