So you may know that smoking is harmful to your oral health – but do you know why? Tobacco and nicotine are vascular-constrictors, which means smoking cigars or cigarettes restricts the blood flow to your mouth. Why is this a problem? One of the first warning signs of gum disease, is bleeding gums. If you smoke, and your gums do not bleed when you brush or floss, you cannot tell if you have developed gum disease or not. By the time it’s discovered, it is often severe. Another reason smoking is harmful for your oral health, is that it is one of the leading causes of mouth cancer. Mouth cancer isn’t the most common form of cancer, however it is serious and can be fatal. If you notice any changes to your tongue, insides of your cheeks or gums, like lumps, sores or discoloration, make an appointment right away.
Smoking also causes staining on teeth from the large quantity of tar in cigarettes. Dark brown or even black staining can occur on the inside and outside surfaces of your teeth. Smoking can also dry out your mouth – causing xerostomia. This greatly increases chances of tooth decay.

For all these reasons it’s clear to see that smoking it not only detrimental to your overall health, but also your oral health. Smokers need to have more frequent check-up and clean appointments, so why not give us a call today.