Maintaining good oral health is essential for your overall well-being. Good habits and good oral hygiene are crucial for improved oral health. However, people who smoke increase their risk of gum problems, tooth loss, complications after tooth removal and oral surgery, and developing mouth cancer. They are more likely to get infections and impaired wound healing. The expert team of dentist in Ankeny are dedicated to educating people about the negative effects of smoking on oral health through this informative blog. Scroll down to read further.
Smoking and ill effects on oral health
Here is a comprehensive list of ill effects caused by smoking:
- Teeth and tongue discoloration with yellowish-brown stains
- Impaired sense of smell and taste
- Cosmetic dental procedures such as teeth whitening or veneers may not work as effectively or last as long if you smoke
- Chronic bad breath (halitosis)
- Reduced salivary flow
- Due to poor salivary flow, you may notice more bacterial accumulation resulting in more plaque and calculus formation
- Chemicals from the smoke may irritate your gums and the lining of your mouth
- Your gums may be affected resulting in swelling, discoloration, and bleeding
- Deep gingival pockets may favor more accumulation of disease-causing bacteria
- The bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place may begin to break down, allowing your teeth to loosen and may eventually fall out
Exploring some useful and effective tips to quit smoking
The best way to safeguard your long-term dental and overall health is to quit smoking. Here are some proven tips to follow:
Have a definite plan
- Once you have decided to quit smoking, work towards it dedicatedly.
- Download government-approved apps to track your progress.
Don’t go it alone
- Seek help and advice from family and friends and discuss your plan about quitting smoking.
- Plan to spend time with non-smokers and seek inspiration from them.
Stay busy
- Avoid distractions that may force you to smoke.
- Replace smoking with healthy habits like swimming, walking, and anything that uses your energy in a positive way.
Avoid triggers
- Stay away from smokers, and things that might tempt you to smoke.
- Common triggers include stress, coffee, alcohol, and hanging out with people who smoke.
Reward your progress
- Every minute you go without a cigarette is a great achievement.
- Pamper yourself with treats or stress-relieving massages or outings.
Quitting smoking can help you improve your oral health and prevent the onset or progression of dental problems. It’s always possible to take that first step towards good oral health. So what are you waiting for?