Smoking: a silent enemy of oral health
Tobacco consumption not only translates into respiratory or cardiovascular problems, but also a threat to the health of our mouths. Its influence extends to a range of oral conditions that can vary from aesthetic issues to severe diseases.
Oral diseases associated with smoking
Experts like Dr. Francisco Rodríguez Lozano, President of the European Smoking Prevention Network, warn that tobacco is one of the main risk factors in the manifestation of oral pathologies. Its presence can significantly reduce the capacity to recover the affected tissues.
Periodontal affections and oral cancer
Smokers are likely to suffer from periodontal diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis, with a more significant loss of bone around the teeth. Statistics indicate that more than half of the serious cases of periodontal disease can be attributed to the use of tobacco. In addition, the risk of oral cancer increases dramatically for those who smoke, with an increase of 7 to 10 times compared to non -smokers.
Other effects of tobacco on oral cavity
In addition to the most severe diseases, smoking causes other oral alterations that can affect the quality of life of individuals. Among these are:
Spots and irritation
Tobacco components, such as tar and nicotine, can cause stains on the teeth and abnormal pigmentation on the gums. In addition, nicotinic stomatitis causes inflammation that manifests itself with white and reddish areas on the palate, in response to the irritation of the smoke.
Slow healing
Smoking adversely affects the body’s ability to heal wounds, including surgical injuries or interventions in the mouth, such as dental extractions.
Recommendations for optimal bucodal health
Smokers need to be proactive in their oral hygiene. A suitable brushing after each meal, the use of fluorine toothpaste and collides are essential to combat the harmful effects of tobacco.
Visit to regulate the dentist
Visiting the dentist most often for professional cleaning and reviews can help identify problems before they become serious complications.
However, the most effective solution to protecting oral health is to reduce tobacco consumption or seek support to quit smoking, thus significantly improving oral health.