Tobacco

You're probably aware of the links between smoking and lung cancer and heart disease.

Recent research shows that smoking causes direct and indirect oral damage, making the periodontal disease more severe and difficult to treat.

There is more calculus on teeth, deeper pockets between gums and teeth, gum recession, and bone loss that holds the teeth in place. Smoking less tobacco also increases your risk of oral cancer. In addition, tobacco use can hinder dental implant placement.

Nicotine, which constricts blood vessels, slows wound healing.

Other chemicals harm white blood cells, your body's first line of defense against infection. The tars contain carcinogens that cause cancerous cell mutations.

Quitting tobacco reduces your risk of cancer and improves the health of your teeth, gums, heart, and lungs.

Smokeless tobacco poses very serious problems including:

• Causes tooth decay
• Eats away your gums
• Leads to tooth loss
• Bad Breath
• Stains your teeth
• Causes oral sensitivity to hot and cold
• Decreases sense of taste and smell

Oral cancer, if left untreated, can be fatal.