If you smoke, you’ve undoubtedly been told many reasons to stop smoking. For your heart, for your lungs, for the health of those surrounding you and, of course, for the increased chances of cancer and other pulmonary issues. Have you ever heard reasons to quit smoking for your oral health? Here are some reasons to quit so that you can enjoy the benefits of a healthy and beautiful smile. And not just for whiter, brighter teeth.
In addition to the cardiac and pulmonary problems caused by cigarettes, smoking disrupts the absorption of calcium in the body. This can cause actual life-threatening conditions such as oral cancer. Those who smoke also have an increased chance for periodontal (gum) disease and can have a compounded chance for tooth or bone loss. This type of gum disease is more difficult to detect and diagnose because the gums may show no signs of bleeding or other abnormalities. Many times the conditions go unnoticed and are not treated in a timely manner.
In today’s media, there is a lot of pressure to look younger for both men and women. Unfortunately many people continue to smoke, endangering their oral and overall health.
Do you smoke? Do you know someone that does? Share this information with friends and relatives and together we can encourage healthier smiles.