Does Smoking Cause Gum Disease?
Many people see blood after they brush their teeth, one of the earliest and most evident signs of gum disease. This dental problem affects the mouths of tons of Americans every year, forcing a dentist in Land O’ Lakes to explain which damaging practices and health issues cause it, such as smoking, pregnancy, diabetes, overbrushing, etc.
What is Gum Disease?
When plaque builds up around your gums, it causes the tissue surrounding your teeth to swell, bleed, and recede. This condition might sound like a slight inconvenience at first, but without proper treatment and care, you expose your tooth pulp and root to harmful bacteria. Not only will gum disease result in excruciating pain and sharp stings, but it will also forever damage mouth tissue and force your dentist to extract your teeth or perform root canal therapy.
Even though everyone is vulnerable to gum disease, certain groups have a harder time battling against it.
Are Smokers More at Risk of Getting Gum Disease?
Cigarettes contain nicotine and tar, compounds that stick to your teeth and gums and give your pearly whites an opaque and tarnished look. Smoking also makes it easier for damaging bacteria to accumulate in your mouth, making you more prone to gum disease and tooth decay. Finally, tobacco also reduces the amount of oxygen in your bloodstream, which hinders your gum’s ability to heal. Therefore, it’s best to stay away from cigarettes or reduce the number of times you smoke a day to keep gum disease away.
These are other common causes of gum disease:
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
- Overbrushing
- Hormonal changes
- Obesity
- Genetics
Looking for a Dentist Who Can Treat Gum Disease in Land O’ Lakes?
Smoking can cause and worsen gum disease, but our team can help you treat and prevent this condition. Book an appointment and meet us today!
