Smoking is a well-known health risk. However, the first thing that cigarette smoke comes into contact with is your smile, putting it directly
in the line of fire for various dental problems. Do you know what effects your smoking habit has on your smile? Find out with Dr. Carmela LaFalce, DMD at Signature Smiles in Toms River, NJ.
What does smoking do to my smile?
Smoking does not just put you at risk for health issues like lung or throat cancer or emphysema. It also puts you at risk for tooth decay and gum disease, the number one cause of tooth loss. Smoking is also notorious as a cause of tooth discolorations and staining. Smoking damages the cells and reduces the blood flow in your oral tissues, causing slower healing times and increasing the chance of infection.
What about smokeless tobacco?
Studies have proven smokeless tobacco to be just as bad, if not worse, for your oral health as smoking cigarettes or cigars. Smokeless tobacco users are at about 50 times the risk of developing oral cancers than non-users. Additionally, smokeless tobacco users are at about four times the risk of non-users for tooth decay, which leads to gum disease. Smokeless tobacco also has more nicotine than cigarettes, meaning they are even more addicting.
Quit Smoking in Toms River, NJ
There are many resources available for quitting your smoking habit now. Quitting now will not only improve your dental and general health but drastically decrease your risk of diseases like cancer. Over-the-counter nicotine replacements often come in the form of patches or gum and are available at drug stores. This option helps you wean off of nicotine slowly. Support groups and self-help books can help you get in the right state of mind to kick your habit for good. Prescription medication can also help you quit smoking. Consult with Dr. LaFalce to determine the best route for you on your journey to becoming an ex-smoker.
For more information on what smoking does to your smile or information on how to quit, please contact Dr. Carmela LaFalce, DMD at Signature Smiles in Toms River, NJ. Call (732) 244-4114 to speak with an associate about scheduling your appointment with Dr. LaFalce today!
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Carmela LaFalce, DMD
Dentist - Toms River
616 Washington St
Toms River, NJ 08753
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