Happy New Year! As you prepare for the New Year, many people are choosing to stop smoking. In an effort to arm you with motivators, we are highlighting the effects of smoking both in dental health and in cosmetic beauty. Many of us are aware of the adverse effect that smoking will have on our overall physical health. However, it’s cosmetic effect on our natural teeth and also on our dental health specifically is extensive. Below we are going to outline the adverse effects of smoking.
Cosmetic Effects
Smoking reduces the production of saliva and saliva is effective in cleaning teeth. Thus, the teeth will begin to be discolored. The discoloration is then increased by the tar that is in tobacco as the residue will linger on the teeth. Also, as smoking increases the risk of periodontal disease increases as well. Smoking is also a cause of chronic bad breath and the loss of teeth.
Health Effects
Saliva is also helpful in preventing tooth decay. Thus, with the lessened production of saliva, tooth decay becomes more rapid. Without the ability to heal itself, all infections in the mouth will worsen.
Infected gums get delayed in healing. Blood flow to the gums is restricted due to smoking. Smoking also diminishes the supply of vital nutrients to the gums. It reduces Vitamin C, which helps the gums to stay healthy. A reduced blood flow and Vitamin C, together delay the treatment of gum diseases in smokers.
As you are planning your New Year’s resolutions, consider giving up smoking and the use of tobacco once and for all. You’ll be glad you did.
The main effects of smoking on a smoker’s teeth are that he will encounter dental and gum problems, or worst, loss of teeth. According to the researchers the effects of smoking can be seen on the body’s immune system, which weakens the body’s capability to fight against infection.