It’s the start of a brand new year, and many of us are trying our hardest to stick to New Year’s resolutions. If you’ve made a vow to try and quit smoking, we are here to help and support you along the way. Smoking is not just a major contributor to heart disease and lung cancer. It can also be incredibly harmful for your teeth. Here are just some of the ways smoking can damage your teeth.

Staining and discolouration

Smoking is one of the most common causes of tooth staining and discolouration. If you smoke, you’re much more likely to have yellow or brown teeth than a non-smoker, even if you have the same oral hygiene regime. This is because cigarettes contain chemicals, including tar, which stain the teeth.

Bad breath

Smoking is a common cause of bad breath. If you’re a smoker, you’re probably aware that there’s an odour that lingers after you’ve had a cigarette.

Increased risk of gum disease

Smoking increases your risk of gum disease because it reduces blood flow to the gums. It also slows the healing process following dental treatment. If you can give up smoking, you should find that you have a much lower risk of gum disease.

Increased oral cancer risk

The number of people in the UK affected by oral cancer has increased significantly in the last decade. Oral cancer is a form of cancer, which affects the soft tissue in the mouth and throat. Smoking is the most significant risk factor, and it is particularly dangerous when combined with drinking alcohol. Symptoms of oral cancer include slow-healing mouth ulcers, oral pain, a persistent sore throat and red or white patches in the mouth.

If you have any questions about quitting smoking or you’d like some advice or tips, we will be happy to help. Simply give us a call or come and visit us.