Smoking and Teeth: Why Smoking Is Bad for Your Teeth

Tobacco smoke is one of the worst enemies of oral health. It affects not only the teeth, but also the gums and mucous membranes of the mouth. According to several studies, smoking damages the smile and increases the risk of periodontitis, tooth decay, and discoloration. It's no surprise, then, that smokers have darker teeth, weaker gums, and a greater likelihood of tooth loss over time.

Smoking shortens life and damages oral health

Smoking is bad for your teeth and overall health. Just consider that twenty cigarettes a day reduce the average lifespan of those who start smoking at age 25 by about five years.

When it comes to teeth, the statistics are clear: smokers are three times more likely to develop severe periodontitis than nonsmokers. Furthermore, their response to periodontal therapy is 50% lower. Periodontitis is an inflammation of the tissues that support the teeth, called the periodontium. If left untreated, it can progressively weaken the tooth, leading to its loss.

Why smoking is bad for your teeth

But why is smoking so bad for your teeth? There are several reasons, largely linked to the effects of nicotine. This substance causes vasoconstriction, reducing the flow of blood and oxygen to the gums. Consequently, the regenerative and defensive capabilities of oral tissues are reduced.

Furthermore, qualitative differences in bacterial plaque are observed in smokers. In fact, aggressive anaerobic bacteria that attack the periodontium develop more easily. The oral mucosa is continuously exposed to irritants and toxins, as well as carcinogenic products derived from tobacco combustion. Not surprisingly, approximately 80% of patients with oral cancer consists of smoking.

The visible effects of smoking on teeth

Smokers are more likely to experience more tartar, receding gums, and tooth stains. Teeth tend to become yellowish or brown in color, often requiring more frequent dental hygiene visits. Smokers also commonly experience more decayed or filled tooth surfaces. However, it's still unclear whether tooth decay is a direct result of smoking or the fact that smokers neglect daily oral hygiene.

How to protect your teeth if you smoke

Quitting smoking is the most important step to improving dental health. However, even those who can't quit right away can reduce the damage by adopting some good habits:

• brush your teeth at least twice a day;
• floss daily;
• carry out regular professional hygiene sessions;
• drink plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated.

Additionally, a diet rich in calcium and vitamin C helps strengthen teeth and gums.