It also increases your risk for developing certain types of cancers, such as lung, mouth and throat. Smoking can actually cause several problems in your mouth, including exacerbating issues with gum disease.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a progressive condition that starts off as an infection of your gums. As it gets worse, bacteria work their way under the tissue and begin to attack your teeth, connective tissues and jawbone. Untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. And smoking can not only add to the problem, but make treatment difficult as well.Smoking and Gum Health
Cigarettes and other tobacco products contain a number of different chemicals. Many of these chemicals are harmful to sensitive gum tissue. As a result, they can cause the tissue to die and recede.These products can affect the normal attachment of bone and tissue to the teeth, increasing your risk for bacterial infection and tooth loss. Smoking also interferes with your body's natural ability to fight against bacteria, giving it the time it needs to reproduce and cause significant damage.
Smoking and Periodontal Treatment
When you undergo periodontal treatment, it is recommended that you quit smoking, if not for good, at least for the duration of your healing process. This is because smoking affects blood flow, as well as the amount of oxygen in your blood.And sufficient oxygen, as well as proper blood flow to carry essential nutrients, is crucial to healing. A slowed healing process only increases your risk for developing new infections, completely negating the purpose of gum disease treatment.
Smoking can not only increase your risk of developing gum disease, it can make it worse, and it can affect your ability to heal properly after treatment. If you are a smoker who suffers from gum disease, be sure to contact our office about the best course of action to restore the health of your mouth.
