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Posted on 6/20/2019 by Lemond Hunter |
Smoking can have many negative consequences on your oral health. That's why we always encourage you to quit, and if you are ready to take that step, we are here to help. Learn How Smoking Affects Oral HealthWhen you smoke a cigarette, your teeth are the first part of your body that are affected. Your teeth touch the cigarette and also come into contact with the toxins within the smoke. These toxins are extremely damaging to the teeth, and with time, they will break down the strength of the tooth.Symptoms can include dry mouth, tooth decay, brown or yellow stains, hardening of plaque, and bleeding gums. Unfortunately, these symptoms can progress to bigger problems. If you experience these issues and continue to smoke, you could be at risk for cavities, tooth loss, root canals, and the loss of tooth enamel. Gum disease is another major problem when it comes to smoking. Gum disease is so common among smokers because bacteria builds up in the mouth, and when the gums become inflamed, they become an easy target for bacteria to cause periodontal disease. Nicotine constricts the blood vessels, which means the gums will bleed less, and it will be harder to diagnose gum disease in its early stages. Eventually, the gums could recede, and your teeth may loosen or even fall out. Resources for Smoking CessationIf you are interested in smoking cessation, we have the resources that can help. We can recommend pharmacological options, gums, patches, support groups, and a wealth of other avenues that can help you be successful. Plus, we will examine your teeth regularly to ensure that your mouth is healthy every step of the way.Are you ready to quit smoking? Let us help! Call us today to learn more and to set up your next evaluation. |
Location1739 NE 122nd Ave Portland, OR 97230-1914 HoursMondays & Tuesdays: 7 AM - 3 PM Wednesdays & Thursdays: 8 AM - 5 PM Fridays: Closed |