The Impact of Tobacco on Dental Health

Tobacco consumption is a habit that affects not only general health but also oral health. The teeth, gums, and the entire oral cavity suffer a range of negative consequences due to the chemicals in tobacco. Regardless of what is smoked, the damage to dental health is considerable. At Inima Dental Clinic, we inform you about how tobacco affects your mouth and what you can do to minimise the impact.

How does tobacco affect dental health?

• Stained teeth: One of the most visible effects of tobacco is tooth discolouration. The nicotine and tar present in tobacco products cause teeth to turn yellow or brown. These stains are difficult to remove with regular brushing and may require professional teeth whitening.
• Persistent bad breath (halitosis): Smokers often suffer from bad breath due to the buildup of toxic substances in the mouth, as well as reduced saliva production and bacterial accumulation. This bad breath can be difficult to combat with mouthwashes or other solutions.
• Periodontal (gum) disease: Tobacco severely affects the health of the gums because it reduces blood circulation, preventing tissues from staying healthy. Smokers are at higher risk of developing periodontal diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis, which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss.
• Gum recession: Smoking accelerates gum recession, exposing the roots of the teeth. This not only increases dental sensitivity but also leaves teeth more vulnerable to decay and other complications.
• Delayed wound healing: Tobacco affects the healing ability of oral tissues. This means that if a smoker undergoes a surgical procedure, the healing process will be much slower, with a higher risk of infections and complications.
• Increased risk of cavities: Smoking contributes to dry mouth, reducing the amount of saliva that helps neutralise acids in the mouth. Without enough saliva, teeth are more prone to developing cavities.
• Oral cancer: One of the most serious risks of tobacco use is oral cancer. Both smoking and chewing tobacco are linked to the development of cancer in the mouth, throat, oesophagus, and lips. Smokers are up to six times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-smokers.
• Tooth loss: Due to gum deterioration, increased cavities, and infections, smokers are at a higher risk of losing teeth at an earlier age compared to non-smokers.

Tips to reduce the impact of tobacco

The best solution to prevent the effects is to quit smoking. However, if you cannot quit immediately, here are some suggestions to reduce the damage:

1. Maintain good oral hygiene: It is essential to brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Also, floss daily and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to help remove bacteria and reduce plaque buildup.
2. Visit the dentist regularly: If you are a smoker, it is crucial to visit the dentist more frequently, ideally at least every six months. Professional cleanings can help control tooth stains and detect any diseases.
3. Whitening treatments: To combat tooth staining, consider professional teeth whitening treatments. However, it’s important to note that if you continue smoking, the stains will reappear.
4. Keep your mouth hydrated: Smoking reduces saliva production, leading to dry mouth. To combat this, drink plenty of water throughout the day and use products designed to relieve dry mouth.
5. Avoid foods and drinks that worsen the effects: Smokers should avoid foods and drinks that can also stain teeth. If consumed, brush your teeth or rinse your mouth afterward.
6. Use specialised mouthwashes: Mouthwashes with fluoride and antibacterial properties can help control bad breath and reduce the bacteria that contribute to gum disease.
7. Consider smoking cessation programs: While reducing the damage is a good short-term strategy, the best solution is to quit smoking. There are many programs, therapies, and resources available to help you in the process.

Tobacco has a devastating impact on oral health, from stained teeth and bad breath to serious diseases. While the best recommendation is to quit smoking to protect your health, maintaining rigorous oral hygiene habits and visiting the dentist regularly can help. If you are a smoker, it’s important to be aware of the risks and take steps to care for yourself.

Contact us and visit our dental clinic in Marbella to book your appointment.