Smoking and Your Oral Health: More Serious Than Yellow Teeth and Bad Breath

When most people think of tobacco’s effects on the mouth, the first things that come to mind are stained, yellow teeth and breath that resembles the odor of an ashtray. While these are certainly common side effects of smoking cigarettes, there are more serious factors to consider as well. At the family dental practice of Resnick & Rosenfeld, DDS in Edison, NJ, our doctors provide patients with pertinent information about smoking and its effects on overall oral health.

Tobacco’s Effects on Dental Health

In addition to causing yellow stains on enamel and contributing to chronic halitosis, smoking can cause a variety of problems that aren’t necessarily as readily noticeable. Smokers are, for instance, substantially more likely to experience periodontal disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. Plaque and tartar build up more quickly on the teeth, further increasing the risk of gum disease. Gum disease comes with its own list of potentially serious complications, including heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and dementia.

Patients who smoke regularly are also at a higher risk of developing oral cancer and typically experience adverse reactions to any type of oral surgery. Bone density within the jaw is also affected, resulting in teeth that may shit in their sockets and become loose.

Reserve Your Appointment Today

Whether you’re a current smoker and concerned about your oral health, or you’ve succeeded in quitting but still need guidance regarding lingering effects of tobacco, our caring, compassionate team is here to help. Contact our office in Edison, NJ today to schedule your appointment with Drs. Resnick and Rosenfeld. We’re always happy to provide our patients with useful tips and information regarding oral health and hygiene, as well as with suggestions and recommendations for cosmetic, restorative, and preventive dentistry. We proudly serve patients from throughout Edison, Scotch Plains, Plainfield, Clark, Westfield, Colonia, and more.