Smoking can have a detrimental impact on your health, and this includes your dental wellness. If you frequently smoke cigarettes, you might be putting yourself at risk for a host of oral diseases. By talking to your dentist at your next teeth cleaning appointment, you can understand your own health risks.

What to Know About Smoking & Oral Health

How Is Smoking Linked to Gum Disease?

Gum disease or periodontal disease is an infection caused by the accumulation of bacteria under the gums. The symptoms of this condition include swollen gums, tenderness, and bleeding. Since smoking weakens your immune system, your body is unable to effectively fight off the infection. This can cause periodontal disease to progress, eventually leading to tooth loss and other complications. Your dentist can spot the early signs of gum disease at your routine teeth cleaning appointments. 

What Are the Other Effects of Smoking?

In addition to gum disease, smoking can slow down the healing process after dental surgery and procedures. Smokers can also experience bone loss in the jaw, bad breath, teeth staining, plaque buildup, and an increased risk of oral cancer. By quitting smoking, you can start reducing your risk of these conditions. 

How Can You Understand Your Own Risk?

While it’s always essential to see your dentist for teeth cleanings, it’s even more important if you smoke. During your next appointment, talk to the dentist about your risk factors and how smoking might be affecting your mouth. They can help you form a plan to quit and get your dental wellness back on track. While kicking your smoking habit can be a difficult process, it will certainly be worth it when you lower your risk of health complications.

If you want to quit smoking and reclaim your dental wellness, the team at Family First Dentistry can help. Located in Anchorage, AK, these dental professionals are committed to your oral health, educating patients of all ages on proper dental care. Whether you are due for a routine teeth cleaning or emergency dental appointment, you can expect exemplary service in their comfortable office. They are also happy to work with you to finance your care, making your appointments a stress-free process. To learn more about their services, visit them online today. Or, call (907) 562-2820 to make an appointment today.