Periodontal Disease and Tobacco
Gum Disease Risks for Tobacco Users
You are probably familiar with the links between tobacco use and lung disease, cancer and heart disease.
Current studies have now linked periodontal disease with tobacco usage. Periodontal disease can be even more severe in smokers than in non-users of tobacco. Smokers have a greater incidence of calculus formation on teeth, develop deeper pockets between gums and teeth as well as manifest greater loss of the bone and fibers that hold teeth in your mouth. In addition, your chance of developing oral cancer increases with the use of smokeless tobacco.
Chemicals in tobacco such as nicotine and tar slow down healing and lower the success following periodontal treatment.
Quitting tobacco will reduce the chance of developing these problems:
- Lung disease
- Heart disease
- Cancer
- Mouth sores
- Gum recession
- Loss of bone and teeth
- Bad breath
- Tooth staining
- Less success with periodontal treatment and with dental implants.
Worried About Periodontal Disease?
Professional examinations are important for maintaining healthy gums. Contact us to schedule an appointment.