Smoking can wreak havoc on your teeth, causing a range of detrimental effects. From unsightly stains and discolouration to more serious issues like gum disease and tooth loss, the consequences of smoking on your dental health can be both visible and hidden. Here are 9 different ways smoking damages your teeth.

1. Build Up Of Plaque And Tartar

Chemicals in tobacco products like cigarettes tend to affect the saliva flow, making it easier for bacteria to stick to gums and teeth. This increases the build-up of plaque and tartar – two main causes of tooth decay and gum diseases. If the plaque is not removed daily, it can harden into tartar (dental calculus), which can then only be removed through professional teeth cleaning. The tartar on the teeth also leads to periodontal gum disease. 

2. Periodontal Disease

Does smoking cause gum disease? Yes, it does! You are up to six times more likely to have periodontal disease if you are a smoker. Smoking and periodontal disease are closely linked. There is also evidence that smokers experience greater tooth loss than non-smokers. As such, this is yet another ill effect that smoking causes. If you are a smoker, you can take a periodontal test today to determine the health of your gums and teeth.

3. Dental Implant Failure

Tobacco hurts the outcome of most treatments including dental implants. The failure rate of implants in smokers is 3 times more likely than those in non-smokers. They also suffer from the problem of marginal bone loss or peri implants. To maximize the success rate of dental implants, a dentist may ask you to stop smoking for at least one week before the process. It is also recommended to quit smoking for two months after the implant to increase the success rate. 

4. Healing And Response To Surgery

Tobacco smokers have a significantly greater incidence of complications after an extraction. For example, Alveolar Osteitis - inflammation of the alveolar bone. Another side effect of smoking is delayed or slow healing post-surgery due to a weak immune system.

5. Discolouration Of Teeth

Did you know that your teeth have pores, just like your skin? That’s right! When you smoke, the nicotine and tar in tobacco are absorbed by these pores, which causes discolouration. However, tooth discolouration or yellow teeth is not the only problem. Your gums are also affected due to repeated exposure to nicotine. Depending on the severity of the stains, the dentist will suggest different teeth whitening services and one or two sessions can make a difference. 

This is true even for electronic cigarettes, as the vapour contains nicotine. Plus, the other chemicals and heavy metals in e-cigarettes can cause receding gums and tooth loss, and since it affects saliva production, it could lead to bad breath. For some smokers, depending on their method of inhalation, certain teeth may become more severely discoloured than the rest. This can adversely affect their appearance, negatively impacting their social life.

6. Increased Loss Of Bone Within The Jaw

Jawbone allows you to speak and chew properly while providing a definite structure to your face. Excessive smoking can cause the jawbone to recede and lose its density over time which can lead to tooth loss. Bone loss within the jaw affects many aspects of oral health and can lead to added complications. Apart from the loss of bone, smoking can lead to tissue loss in the jaw and many people are not even aware of this condition until it shows up in an X-ray.

7. Inflammation Of The Salivary Gland

Regular smoking can cause inflammation of the salivary glands leading to increased plaque build-up and dry mouth conditions. It causes mouth odour due to insufficient saliva production. Apart from swelling, you’ll experience pain in the jaw or a painful lump under the tongue. The pain might increase when you eat something. Visit the dentist at the earliest if the pain is persistent and he’ll recommend a treatment based on your condition.

8. Risk Of Developing Oral Cancer

Smokers are seven times more at risk of developing oral cancer than non-smokers. The chemicals in tobacco can cause genetic changes in cells of the mouth cavity, which can lead to the development of oral cancer. Not only oral, but cigarettes also cause 90% of lung cancers in the world. Many studies reveal that you are 4.4 times more likely to be affected by oral cancer if you are a smoker. To minimise the risk, quit smoking which will also promote good oral hygiene and gum health.

9. Interferes With Blood Circulation

Smoking affects blood flow through arteries in two ways. Nicotine – an addictive chemical in cigarettes – causes your blood vessels to constrict, thereby limiting the amount of blood they carry and losing their flexibility. This makes the heart work harder, which leads to higher blood pressure. Smoking also harms the veins with artery-clogging plaques that weaken the cell layers on the inner side of the blood vessels, which increases the risk of heart attacks in most cases.

1. Other Lesions

Smoking causes other illnesses too such as Leukoplakia - a condition where white patches develop on your tongue or inside the cheek, Oral Mucosal Lesions and Oral Keratosis. All these diseases increase the risk of oral cancer.

2. Bad Breath

One of the immediate effects of smoking is bad breath. While the causes of bad breath are many, smoking is one of the biggest reasons as the residue of nicotine from cigarettes lingers in the mouth for hours. This causes not only bad breath but also other dental problems. Smokers' breath can also cause severe social and personal embarrassment, which could lead to seclusion.

Further Read: What Causes Bad Breath

3. Lower Life Expectancy 

Several studies show that smoking shortens the life span by at least 10 years when compared to those who have never smoked. On average, smoking 1 to 4 cigarettes a day can increase the risk of dying prematurely significantly. Also, it is estimated that two-thirds of smokers will die, as smoking adversely affects almost all body organs and systems. According to reports from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, approximately 20,500 people in Australia are facing health challenges as a result of smoking.

4. Passive Smoking

Also known as ‘Second Hand Smoke (SHS),’ passive smoking can affect the health and well-being of people who breathe in the smoke, when in the presence of smokers. Since they are exposed to the chemical substances in the smoke, even inhaling a small amount can be detrimental to their health. It can also irritate the eyes and nose. Plus, it can cause health problems such as heart disease, respiratory problems, and lung cancer, and is particularly harmful to babies and kids.

5. Other Problems 

Excessive coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue, lack of energy, and reduction in the sense of taste and smell are some of the other long term effects of smoking that can affect your health as well as social life. Smokers are also at risk of other severe health problems such as respiratory or lung problems (asthma), problems related to the heart and blood vessels, fertility problems, etc.

1. Going Cold Turkey

When someone decides to quit using the cold turkey method, they stop smoking immediately, without any special help or medications. They rely on their willpower to handle cravings and withdrawal symptoms. They also figure out what makes them want to smoke, like being around others who smoke or feeling stressed, and learn how to cope without cigarettes. Even though it can be tough, many people see quitting cold turkey as a powerful way to become smoke-free.

2. Nicotine Replacement Therapy

Nicotine is a habit-forming substance that makes it difficult for many people to quit cigarettes. Nicotine replacement therapy can help alleviate severe withdrawal symptoms and cravings, enabling many individuals to successfully quit tobacco. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) comes in various forms, such as patches, gum, oral sprays, inhalers, and lozenges or tablets. However, it's crucial to be aware that smoking while undergoing NRT therapy can be harmful to your body. Therefore, it's important to understand how this therapy works before committing to it.

3. Lean On Family And Friends

The journey to quit smoking is tough as dealing with cravings is hard. Here, leaning on your loved ones can make the process a tad better. Talk to them and speak out your apprehensions. Or you can also consider taking up hobbies like painting or dancing with your friends. Not only will this help you stay occupied, but it will also provide you with a healthy and enjoyable alternative to smoking.

4. Divert Your Mind

To keep your hands off the cigarette pack, you must divert your mind; so indulge in things that you love. If you love music, go for music therapy or learn to play a musical instrument. If you love cooking, make your favourite dishes. Whenever you feel the need to smoke, divert your mind to deal with cravings. Talk to your physician to learn about the different ways you can quit smoking to lead a healthy life.

5. Don’t Give Up

Life is all about trying till you succeed. It is not easy to quit smoking, certainly not if you are a chain smoker. But, you need to have a strong will. Even if you don’t succeed at first, you’ll overcome the habit one day by being persistent.

6. Speak To Your Doctor/GP

Sometimes, people don't realize that there are medications designed specifically to assist in quitting. Your doctor can provide valuable guidance and prescribe these medications based on your individual needs and health history. By consulting with a healthcare professional, you ensure that you have access to the right tools and support to enhance your chances of successfully quitting smoking.

7. Behavioral Counseling

Talking to a trained therapist or counsellor who knows how to help you quit smoking can provide valuable support and coping strategies. They're experts in helping you find ways to handle situations that make you want to smoke also called "triggers" and dealing with the strong urges to smoke called "cravings". 

Further reading: Dental Problems And Their Treatment

Conclusion

Smoking affects both your overall health and oral well-being. It's linked to issues like cavities, gum disease, stained teeth, weakened immunity, tooth loss, mouth sores, and even oral cancer. If you're determined to quit smoking, reach out to your GP or Sunshine Coast dentists today for support. Remember, quitting can take several tries, but each attempt is a valuable learning experience. Your dentist plays a crucial role in guiding you through this journey, so don't hesitate to consult them for the help you need.

1. What Is The Process To Clean My Gums From Smoking?

Maintain your oral health by brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash in a routine. You can also explore DIY solutions to prevent tartar buildup and practice different techniques to clean your teeth. Don't forget to gently brush your gums to keep them clean and healthy too.

2. How Do You Get Rid Of Smoker’s Gums?

Besides regular flossing and brushing, consider professional teeth cleaning. Your dentist might recommend deep cleaning techniques for areas below the gum line. In extreme situations, surgery may be necessary to eliminate stubborn tartar and plaque buildup.

3. Can I Protect My Teeth While Smoking?

Boost your fluid intake and try an antibacterial mouthwash. Sugarless gum or peppermint can help too. Don't forget to floss and brush regularly, and schedule regular visits to the dentist for a cleaning session to maintain a healthy mouth.