There are many different factors that can affect dental health. Smoking is detrimental to your teeth and gums. Smokers are more prone to tooth decay and gum disease. You may suffer from bad breath, and your teeth may appear stained and yellow; this is because smoking weakens your immune system by lowering your white blood cell count. White blood cells protect your body, including your teeth and gums, from infection by fighting off bacteria and plaque. If you are a heavy smoker, then you may not produce enough white blood cells to fight off the bacteria and plaque in your mouth, meaning that you could experience dental complications, especially later on in life.

Dental treatment for smokers

It is very important that you visit your dentist St John’s Wood regularly. Normally, you should visit your dentist St John’s Wood at least once every six months to maintain healthy teeth and gums. If you are a heavy smoker, it is recommended that you attend dental checkups at least once every three months so that your dentist can examine your mouth for signs of tooth decay or gum disease. Furthermore, a hygienist can carry out a scale-and-polish to remove excess plaque and prevent the formation of tartar on your teeth. Your dentist will also perform a mouth cancer screening since oral cancer is something you may be more susceptible to if you smoke; this is the same for those who smoke cigarettes and chew tobacco. Not only will you harm your teeth and gums, but you will also be more prone to systemic health issues.

A healthy lifestyle is very important for good dental health and overall well-being. Speak to your dentist or GP to find out more about how to quit smoking, enjoy better dental health and reduce the chance of complex dental complications in the future.

If you avoid dental check-ups for too long, then smoking may cause irreversible damage to your teeth. Book an appointment sooner rather than later and let your dentist help you tackle the symptoms that may be affecting your dental health.

By removing bacteria, plaque and tartar from your teeth, your dentist will be able to help you enjoy fresh breath and a bright, white smile. If smoking has affected your teeth and your dentist identifies signs of tooth decay or gum disease, then they can put together a tailored treatment plan for you. A scale-and-polish with a hygienist can remove plaque and tartar from the mouth, but any restorative dental treatment will have to be carried out by your dentist where necessary. Restorative treatment will help revive the health of your teeth and gums, which may have been affected by smoking.

Smoking also affects the aesthetic appearance of your teeth, and you may undergo cosmetic dental treatment, such as dental whitening, to improve the appearance of your smile. Speak to your dentist today and reverse the signs of smoking so that you can enjoy healthy teeth and gums for the rest of your life.