Cosmetic Dentistry Weblog

Tobacco: toxic to the body and also the teeth

On the respiratory system (paralysis of the hair cells and irritation of the bronchial mucosa, lung cancer). On the cardiovascular system (increased blood pressure, lower “good” cholesterol and increase “bad”, carbon monoxide poisoning, decrease the size of the arteries). On ENT (cell damage responsible for taste, smell, vocal cords, cancer and precancerous lesions, periodontal disease).

The brain (psychological and physical dependence, stroke).

On the digestive system (increased gastric acidity, rapid transit).

On the skin (reduced cell turnover, skin elasticity, wrinkles and worsening risks of developing skin diseases with tasks).

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease of the gums and tissues supporting the teeth. They can be classified into two categories: gingivitis and periodontitis. But tobacco is directly involved in more serious conditions such as cancerous lesions.

Yellow teeth, bad breath: fertile ground for dental problems

Tobacco, we have just seen, can affect oral health. It promotes the emergence and development of periodontal diseases (affecting the gums, teeth and supporting tissues) as well as black or brown stains on teeth.

In addition, tobacco smoke improves the living conditions of the bacteria involved in these pathologies and smoking decreases the immune response against infections, causing more damage in case of smoking abstinence.

A U.S. study (Tomar and Asma, 2000) concluded that smokers are four times more periodontitis than non-smokers. Tobacco is thus responsible for 40% of cases of chronic periodontitis.

So for many major dental (implants, bridges), dentists recommend a smoking cessation for easy care, but also because nicotine decreases the capacity of healing and therefore the chances of successful treatment.

Stop smoking in order to treat his tooth

Some dental practitioners may ask their patients to stop smoking for dental practice. At the same time to facilitate the operation, but also to guarantee the patient a better success rate.

Indeed, we must know the patient weaned from its dependence on tobacco responds the same way to treatment that the patient non-smoker. Healing is better in patients weaned or non-smoker than the smoker.

Vasoconstriction produced by nicotine reduces scarring and delayed healing.

The decision must be made before starting treatment and extend the time for complete healing healing done.

Substitutes, gums, patches

Many solutions exist today to make a provisional cessation (or final) as part of dental care.

Available as chewing gum, patches or tablets, subsitute available are effective in stopping the addiction.

If you think your addiction easily surmountable, ask your pharmacist for nicotine replacement therapy to help you withstand the effects of lack. If you fear trouble stopping, please consult your physician can provide specific answers for you.