Smoking wreaks havoc on the mouth. There are obvious negative effects of smoking cigarettes, but often, the subtle culprits are the most damaging. Smoking is the leading cause of tooth loss—not sports injuries, cavities, or overcrowding of the mouth, like you might suspect. A few other unpleasant oral side effects include:
- gum disease
- bad breath
- tooth discoloration
- plague and tartar build up
- loss of bone mass in the jaw
- increased chances of developing oral cancer
- greater susceptibility to infection
But wait…there is good news! If you are a smoker, it is never too late to quit. Most dentists agree that giving up cigarettes reverses many of the long-term oral effects, often giving the former smoker a chance at optimal oral health. Let us help you establish a course for success in reaching your health’s full potential.