Tobacco has a direct link to your oral health. Smoking brings to mind lung damage, but oral health issues are common in people who use tobacco.

Tobacco Affects The Tissues Of The Mouth

Smoking interferes with the normal function of gum tissues. This affects the attachment of the bone and soft tissues of your teeth. Blood flow to the gums may be impaired affecting wound healing. It may also increase the risk of gum infections such as periodontal disease.

Smoking is one of the main problems, but tobacco in any form is injurious to health. Smoking cigarettes, pipes, cigars or chewing tobacco will affect your mouth.

Dr Deepa Kumaran

Tobacco Causes Many Oral Diseases

Tobacco damages every part of the body and causes many diseases, the chief among them being lung cancer. Oral diseases it causes include:

  • Bad breath
  • Gum disease
  • Delayed healing  
  • Tooth discolourations
  • Salivary gland inflammation
  • Plaque and tartar buildup on teeth
  • Loss of jaw bone
  • White patches inside the mouth
  • Oral cancer (mouth, lips, tongue, throat

It Does not Matter When You Quit Tobacco. 

Quitting tobacco is the best way to prevent illness. Every time you smoke, you increase the damage to your mouth and lungs. The moment you stop smoking, your lungs get a chance to recover. Even reducing the amount of usage will reduce your chances of getting oral diseases. So, no matter how long you have used tobacco, quit it now for better health tomorrow.

Quitting Tobacco Is Possible.

Tobacco is addictive and may cause cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Emotional triggers and situational triggers will have you reaching for a smoke. If you have trouble quitting, consult your doctor. They will prescribe medications to inhibit your cravings. Smoking cessation classes, support groups, herbal remedies, acupuncture treatments will help you quit smoking and tobacco. 

- Dr. Deepa Kumaran, MDS (Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopaedics), Registrar, Dental Surgery, Dr.Rela Institute  & Medical Centre, Chennai