If you use tobacco, it’s important to keep your teeth cleaning and exam appointments with your dentist. Smoking and chewing can damage the teeth and gums, the effects of which could last a lifetime. Learn more below about the ways that the habit could be affecting you. 

The Most Harmful Effects of Tobacco Use 

1. Cavities 

Smoking and chewing tobacco lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar on the tooth enamel. If you don’t stick to an aggressive brushing and flossing regimen, these substances will cause decay and cavities. Symptoms include pain and sensitivity, which will become enhanced each time you use tobacco. Patients who don’t receive fillings may develop an infection and periodontal disease.

2. Periodontal Disease 

When bacteria continues to grow inside the mouth, it begins to affect the jaw bone and gums. This condition is known as periodontitis. Patients may experience discomfort, bleeding, and loose teeth. The signs of advanced cases include the destruction of gum tissue, as well as tooth and jaw bone loss. 

3. Tooth Loss 

Missing teeth do not only affect a person’s confidence, but they also cause issues for their overall dental health. Remaining teeth may shift and lead to a crooked smile. The jaw bone may also begin to deteriorate. Additional complications include difficulty chewing and trouble speaking. 

4. Stained Teeth 

The tar and nicotine in cigarettes will quickly turn teeth yellow. Years of smoking will even cause brown stains to form. Stained enamel is not only unattractive but takes significant effort to remove. Most patients will need professional teeth whitening to remove discoloration under the enamel surface. 

5. Oral Cancer 

Tobacco use is one of the biggest contributing factors for developing oral cancer. Unfortunately, many patients do not know they have the disease until it is in its advanced stages. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, the condition will lead to over 9,000 deaths in 2018. The only way to monitor your mouth for symptoms is to see a general dentist regularly. 

Whether you are thinking about quitting tobacco or have already begun the process, a cleaning and exam with a dentist at Dental Clinic of Onalaska will help to preserve your smile. Restorative care, teeth whitening, root canals, and bridges are a few of the ways they accomplish this. To make an appointment with the dentist in La Crosse County, WI, call (608) 783-3341. Or, dial their sister office in Trempealeau, WI, at (608) 534-6195. For information about the practice’s preventative and restorative services, visit their website. Learn more about caring for your smile at home by following them on Facebook.