Your lungs, skin, and most of your body are all negatively affected by smoking. Effects on teeth can be just as harmful. If you need a few more reasons to quit smoking, read on.
Tooth Discoloration
There is nothing beneficial about smoking. Effects on teeth include significant yellowing. This occurs when tar and nicotine stain the enamel. With time, the teeth will darken until they are almost brown and there is nothing cool about a discolored smile.
Plaque and Tartar Buildup
It is more difficult to keep teeth clean when you smoke. As plaque builds up and turns into tartar, it not only causes cavities but can become visible and unsightly.
Tooth Loss
Gum disease is a huge problem for smokers. Cigarette smokers tend to have poor circulation. When blood flow to the gums is restricted, the gums are less able to fight off harmful bacteria. As gum disease progresses, it can lead to tooth loss.
Reduce Smoking Effects on Teeth
The best way to minimize harmful smoking effects on teeth is to not smoke. If you are a current smoker, seek out help in quitting. There are many different types of programs available today. Everybody is different, so keep trying until you find a method of quitting that works for you. You will be saving not only your teeth, but your life.
If you are not able to stop smoking, the effects on teeth will worsen without intervention. Be sure to visit your dentist regularly and be honest about the amount of cigarettes you smoke. The dentist can then develop a treatment plan that takes your smoking into account. This may include more frequent visits or special products to use at home.
To make regular visits to the dentist more affordable, enroll in a dental plan from EDP and start saving up to 70 percent off your dental care costs. Call (631) 272-5230 or review our plan options, get registered, and schedule a mouth-saving visit right away.
