Tobacco, regardless of its form, causes serious damage to a user’s teeth and gums, according to the American Dental Association. Many users incorrectly believe that smokeless tobaccos, such as chewing tobacco, dip, or snuff, aren’t as harmful as cigarettes.

Dr. Robert Petrtyl, a Cincinnati dentist with 35 years of experience, warns that even though a tobacco is smokeless, it’s still tobacco and can greatly damage your teeth. One of the most common forms of smokeless tobacco is chewing tobacco, which consists of strands of loose leaves or twists of tobacco that are chewed and later spit out.

Some of the effects to a user’s mouth can include gum disease that eventually leads to tooth loss, stained or discolored teeth, erosion of teeth, and loss of tissue and bone around a tooth’s roots.

Dr. Petrtyl and his caring staff treat periodontal disease caused by tobacco use and other factors, such as unchecked diabetes. Symptoms of periodontitis range from gingivitis and bad breath to receding gums. Gum disease treatment consists of removing the buildup of plaque and can include small wafers of antibiotic solutions planted between the teeth and gums.

Depending on the severity of gum disease, Dr. Petrtyl also performs tooth extraction, root canals, bridges and crowns, and other restorative dentistry using cutting-edge technology.

As a general dentistry that also handles family and pediatric dentistry, Dr. Petrtyl’s practice encourages preventative maintenance above all else. With regular teeth cleanings and home care, patients can avoid the need for fillings and dentures.

By cutting tobacco use completely, patients can have healthy, beautiful smiles. Get your oral health under control with a visit to Dr. Robert Petrtyl. Call (513) 554-4657 to schedule an appointment, or learn more about the practice and its services online.