- Smokers are twice as likely to develop gum disease compared to non-smokers.

- Even with treatment, gum disease is harder to manage for smokers, leading to faster progression.

- Healthy gums are essential for a strong, beautiful smile, and untreated gum disease can affect your overall health.

The nicotine and tar in cigarettes cause teeth to turn yellow or brown over time, even for those who brush regularly.

Smoking stains are stubborn, often requiring professional whitening to address. Beyond the aesthetic issues, stains can also indicate deeper, underlying problems with oral health.

Why It Matters:

- Stained teeth can impact confidence, especially when it comes to smiling and socializing.

- Professional whitening can help, but repeated smoking continues the cycle of discoloration.

- Quitting smoking is the best way to prevent further staining and restore your smile’s brightness.

Smoking dries out the mouth, reducing saliva flow.

Saliva is very important when it comes to naturally clean the mouth and control bacteria. Without enough saliva, bacteria can grow, leading to chronic bad breath, or halitosis, that’s hard to hide with regular oral hygiene.

Did You Know?

- Dry mouth is more than just an inconvenience - it can lead to tooth decay and infections.

- Chewing gum or using mouthwash might mask the problem temporarily, but the root cause remains.

- Quitting smoking helps restore saliva production, giving your mouth a chance to heal and feel fresh.

One of the most serious risks associated with smoking is oral cancer.

Smokers are six times more likely to develop cancers of the mouth, tongue, lips, and throat compared to non-smokers. Early symptoms may include sores, lumps, or white patches in the mouth, but often there are no symptoms until the cancer has progressed.

Protect Yourself:

- Regular dental check-ups can help with early detection of suspicious signs.

- Quitting smoking reduces your risk, and combining this with a healthy lifestyle strengthens your defences.

Smoking affects the blood flow in your body, including to your gums. This means smokers often experience slower healing after dental procedures like tooth extractions, implants, or gum surgeries.

Poor circulation makes it harder for your body to repair itself, increasing the risk of complications.

What It Means for Smokers:

- Longer recovery times after dental procedures can lead to discomfort and potential complications.

- Smokers might face challenges with certain treatments, such as dental implants, because of their impaired healing ability.

- Stopping smoking before and after treatments can dramatically improve healing and success rates.

Quitting smoking is the best step you can take to protect your mouth, teeth, and gums.

Regular dental visits, combined with a commitment to oral hygiene, can help prevent and manage the effects of smoking.

Need Support?

- Book an appointment - Our team is here to provide advice on quitting smoking and caring for your oral health.