Patient Forms
Smoking is bad for your health and for those around you, but it can also damage your smile. Tobacco increases your risk of many dental problems, including a dry mouth. Here is why smoking and dry mouth are bad news for your teeth and gums.
Smoking and Saliva Production
Inhaling smoke through your mouth triggers your saliva glands to overproduce. Tobacco also increases the acidity of your saliva. The overproduction of acidic saliva can erode your enamel as it bathes your teeth.
While this only occurs temporarily, researchers have found that long-term smoking can lead to a significant reduction in saliva production, causing a dry mouth.
Without enough saliva, your mouth becomes a perfect environment for oral bacteria growth. Too much bacteria can lead to bad breath and many other serious problems that may lead to tooth loss.
Oral Health Risks of Smoking
Smoking is attributed to many dental issues, including:
- Tooth Discoloration: Tar and nicotine can stain your enamel, turning your teeth brown or yellow.
- Cavities: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 40% of smokers have untreated tooth decay. As your saliva becomes more acidic, it can erode your enamel. Once your enamel is lost, it won’t grow back.
- Gum Disease: At least 50% of adults have gum disease. Smokers have an increased risk because tobacco affects your immune system, making you more prone to infections and delayed healing. Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss and is linked to many health issues, including cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and respiratory illness.
- Oral Cancer: According to the Mouth Cancer Foundation, smokers are 6 times more likely to develop oral cancer than nonsmokers.
Protecting Your Oral Health from Tobacco
It’s best to stop smoking, but if you can’t kick the habit, your dentist recommends following a few tips:
- Commit to Your Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice daily for 2 minutes each session. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss at least once per day.
- Stay Hydrated: Stay hydrated to keep your mouth moist. Healthcare professionals recommend drinking at least eight 8-oz glasses of water every day.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule a cleaning and checkup every 6 months. Your dentist will also perform an oral cancer screening at each appointment.
Your dentist will create a personalized strategy to protect your smile from the harmful effects of smoking.
About Dr. Francisca A. Sanchez
Dr. Sanchez earned her dental degree at the Columbia School of Dental Medicine and has completed her AEGD. She has regularly continued her education in many specialties, including dental implants. Dr. Sanchez is a proud member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through her website or call (646) 444-8277.