It goes without saying that there are a significant number of factors that pose a threat to the integrity of your smile. Though some such as tooth decay and gum disease may be relatively well-known, there are vastly more issues that you might not even be aware pose a threat to your grin to begin with. One such instance that you hear about is that cigarettes are bad for your teeth, but just how bad are they? In today’s blog, your Leawood, KS dentist examines the effects of tobacco use and your smile, as well as what steps you can take to prioritize your oral health.
Weaker Structures
From a young age, your parents or guardians likely emphasized the need to brush your teeth consistently. Though at the time it may have been nothing more than an annoyance to you, the truth is that oral care at home is necessary for maintaining a lifelong smile, and the sooner you start, the better off you will be.
Another important factor that your guardians hopefully emphasized was the negative effects of tobacco use and smoking on your health. Indeed, there have been plenty of studies and surmountable evidence pointing to the connection between cigarettes and lung cancer, but did you know this practice is also a detriment to your teeth?
Indeed, tobacco use causes your teeth to become weaker, more brittle, and more susceptible to gum and tooth infection. What’s more? This is only the beginning, as the more you partake in this activity, the worse it will become for your overall health. For more information about this process, reach out to our office today.
How They Cause Discoloration
Another major concern that arises from cigarette use is the way it causes discoloration in your teeth. Indeed, tobacco leaves behind a yellowish-brown staining pigment that also causes harm to your natural structures. The direct result is a tarnished yellow or brown hue, and getting rid of these stains is anything but simple. Not only does this cause a cosmetic discrepancy in your smile’s appearance, but it also contributes to poorer oral hygiene and an overall subpar grin. Reach out to our team today to learn more about the ways you can prevent this phenomenon.
Increased Risk of Oral Cancer
Finally, cigarette use contributes to oral cancer. Oral cancer occurs when the cells contained in your tissues metastasize and continue to grow without stopping. It can cause tooth loss and tissue infections, and your chances of successful treatment decreases significantly the longer you wait to seek help. Our team does perform oral cancer screenings to help ensure your smile is cared for, but the only way to minimize your chances of development are to cease smoking cigarettes altogether.
Learn more Today
Contact Dreem Dentistry in Leawood, KS by calling 913-681-5500 to schedule your next visit with our office and learn more about the impact smoking cigarettes has on your teeth.
