How smoking affects the health of your gums

Posted in General Dentistry

We all know that smoking negatively affects your health, but did you know that it can negatively impact your oral health as well?

Smoking can lead to numerous dental problems, including discolored teeth, bad breath, an increase in plaque and tartar, increased loss of bone within the jaw, increased risk of oral cancer, and an increased risk of developing gum disease.

According to Web MD, smoking leads to gum disease because the tobacco interferes with the way your gum tissue cells function, and by affecting the attachment of bone and soft tissue to the teeth.

If you smoke, the best thing to do is to consider quitting. There are great health risks involved, and gum disease is only one of them. If you’re a smoker, please make sure to inform our doctors so that we can watch for signs of gum disease and other issues.

Are you a smoker and are concerned about your oral and gum health? Thinking of quitting? Dr. Klotz or Dr. Schlossberg are waiting to help you! Call Bethesda Sedation Dentistry today! In our Bethesda office we cater to the dental needs of patients from Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Rockville, and Washington D.C.