Tobacco Causes Dental Hazards

You would basically have to be living under a rock not to know that smoking and other tobacco use can cause health problems. You are aware that these problems include lung cancer and other respiratory illnesses. However, not many people are aware of the dental and oral health implications of tobacco use such as cigarettes, chewing tobacco, cigars, and smokeless tobacco.

It is important to be aware of these dental problems that can be associated with tobacco use.

• There is the increase risk of oral cancer.
• Increase of gum disease which can lead to tooth loss.
• Bad breath
• Tartar or dental plaque buildup on the teeth.
• Yellowing of teeth
• Receding gums
• Increased sensitivity
• Poor gum healing.

Dr. Croft at Columbia Orthodontics would like to encourage anyone who is using tobacco to consider quitting.

Some individuals have succeed in going “cold turkey.” Quitting without any chemical or medical assistance.

Some other options are nicotine assistance (such as the patch or nicotine gum) or psychotherapy.

If you have any questions, contact Dr. Croft.