In today’s society, it is no secret that there are many negative side effects caused by tobacco. However, it is important that oral health issues be taken into account and be taken seriously.
The two main concerns when it comes to tobacco and oral health are periodontal disease and oral cancer. Both have the ability to destroy the health of your entire mouth, as well as lead to further health concerns that can compromise your overall health.
Periodontal disease is the severe disease of the gums that can progress to serious infection and cause irreversible damage. Periodontal disease attacks the bone that surrounds the teeth, causing them to loosen and eventually fall out. Once periodontal disease has set in, it will require extensive treatment in order to restore the health of the mouth. However, periodontal disease starts out with a much less serious beginning. Gingivitis is the onset of gum disease that affects the gums and soft tissues surrounding the teeth. If gingivitis is caught early and is treated, it can be averted so that periodontal disease does not compromise oral health.
Smoking, and the use of other tobacco products, has a reaction inside the mouth that makes the mouth vulnerable to destruction. Tobacco causes the soft tissues of the mouth to become irritated and weakens its immune fighting capabilities. Oral cancer is prominent among tobacco users because smoking reduces the amount of antibodies within the mouth that are there to fight against toxins.
Smoking, chewing tobacco, and all other oral uses of tobacco products are a real drag on your oral health. At Gold Hill Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand how difficult it can be to break a nicotine habit and we are here to help you in whatever way we can. We will work with you to negate damage done by tobacco use, and will provide treatment necessary to help you achieve optimal oral health. Please call our practice today and speak with a member of our friendly staff to schedule an appointment to discuss how, together, we can overcome damage that tobacco has caused.