How does smoking affect oral health?
Smoking is not only linked to lung cancer and heart disease, but it also affects oral health. Although smoking and chewing tobacco does not increase the risk of having cavities, it can do lots of damage to the gums and other parts of the mouth: • The risk of tooth loss in smokers is twice more than in non-smokers. • Smoking is the main cause of throat and oral cancers. • Smoking increases periodontal disease (gum disease). In fact, according to the Journal of Periodontology, smokers are about four times more likely than people who have never smoked, to have advanced periodontal disease. • Smoking can cause inflammation of the salivary glands. • Smoking delays healing after tooth extraction and can lead to a temporary and painful condition known as dry socket. • Smokers have less success with periodontal treatments and dental implants. Besides the significant and dangerous hazards mentioned above, other factors that smokers should consider include: • Smoking is a major source of halitos
