When you think about the problems that could be caused by smoking or chewing tobacco, what’s the first thing that comes to your mind? Did you think about what smoking can do to your oral health? If so, you aren’t alone. Your dental health is a concern, but what about your oral health?
One of the first things you should know about using tobacco is that it will yellow your teeth. Unfortunately, once this happens there’s little you can do to correct this problem. You see, tobacco product will stick to the outer layer of your teeth. Also, as you probably know, the use of tobacco products can lead to bad breath.
Similarly, if you use tobacco products, you could lose teeth. While this may seem like just a cosmetic issue, it can also lead to a number of other problems, including difficulty eating, trouble speaking clearly, and an uneven bite. Tobacco products can also cause receding gum lines, which can leave teeth vulnerable to bacteria. This will make tooth loss even more likely. Also, if you smoke, your mouth will be more vulnerable to infection and struggle to heal properly. Finally–and perhaps most importantly–smoking can lead to cancer in mouth, esophagus, larynx, or lungs.
We understand that giving up smoking can be difficult, but it will lead to a better lifestyle and there are a few options you should consider. If you would like to learn more, please feel free to give us a call at 603-444-2100. Dr. John S. Grisham and our team are excited to meet you!