At Atlantic Dentistry, Dr. Markus Heyder and our staff encourage each of our patients to participate in World No Tobacco Day on Saturday, May 31st. As you may be aware, tobacco can not only cause lung cancer and other complications, but it can also cause oral cancer, tooth staining and a decrease in oral health.
If you are a smoker, our dentist in Kitty Hawk, NC, Dr. Heyder, encourages you to quit. Take advantage of May 31st as a step in the right direction for your oral and overall health by not smoking. Cigarette packages display a warning that if you quit now, it will greatly reduce serious risks to your health. Smoking does cause lung cancer, and emphysema, but smoking also causes half of periodontal disease in smokers, as well. And when you suffer from chronic gum disease, it can lead to the loss of your teeth.
I Am a Smoker—Now What?
If you are a smoker, your dental care needs are considerably more demanding than those of a non-smoker. Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of tooth loss and also increases your risk for periodontal disease, loss of bone structure, inflammation of the salivary gland, leukoplakia and development of the lung, throat or oral cancer. Additionally, other factors for smokers to consider are:
A consistent build-up of plaque and tartar
Stained teeth
Bad breath
The loss of taste and smell
With a decreased flow of saliva in smokers, they have been shown to have more tartar build-up than non-smokers. Smoking tobacco products can make gum disease worsen more quickly, as several studies have stated that smokers were three to six times more likely to have gum destruction than non-smokers. Additionally, smokers had severe bone loss that was five times greater among current or former heavy smokers.
As a smoker, your teeth are highly susceptible to various oral health problems and diseases. Only Dr. Markus Heyder, our Kitty Hawk, NC dentist, can help you prevent periodontal disease and other diseases, but it is very important to quit smoking as well. Your oral health and overall health will depend on it.
Take charge of your health and participate in World No Tobacco Day on May 31st—it may be just what you need to finally quit smoking.
At Atlantic Dentistry, Dr. Markus Heyder and our staff encourage each of our patients to participate in World No Tobacco Day on Saturday, May 31st. As you may be aware, tobacco can not only cause lung cancer and other complications, but it can also cause oral cancer, tooth staining and a decrease in oral health.
