Dental Checkup Detects Oral Problems Caused by Tobacco

Tobacco has a direct link to your oral health. Smoking brings to mind lung damage, but oral health issues are common in people who use tobacco.

Tobacco Affects the Tissues of the Mouth

Smoking interferes with the normal function of the gum tissues. This affects the attachment of the bone and soft tissues of your teeth. Blood flow to the gums may be impaired, affecting wound healing. It may also increase the risk of gum infections such as periodontal disease.

Smoking is one of the main problems, but tobacco in any form is injurious to health. Smoking cigarettes, pipes, cigars, or chewing tobacco will affect your mouth.

Tobacco Causes Many Oral Diseases

Tobacco damages every part of the body and causes many diseases, the chief among them being lung cancer. Oral diseases it causes include:

• Bad breath
• Gum disease
• Delayed healing
• Tooth discolorations
• Salivary gland inflammation
• Plaque and tartar buildup on teeth
• Loss of jawbone
• White patches inside the mouth
• Oral cancer (mouth, lips, tongue, throat

Development of Oral Cancer

• Painless ulcers which doesn’t heal
• White or red spots anywhere in the mouth
• Unusual lumps or swellings

There is a misconception that smokeless tobacco, like paan, snuff, zarda, khaini, mawa, etc., is not as harmful as smoking a cigarette. Unfortunately, tobacco in any form is detrimental to overall health. In fact, there is twice the amount of nicotine present in chewing tobacco when compared to a cigarette. Some of the other oral conditions caused by tobacco are

• Stains on the teeth and restorations
• Periodontal diseases
• Halitosis
• Root caries
• Increased plaque and calculus formation
• Taste derangement

Nowadays, evidence suggests that no body organ is spared from tobacco, and the list of ill effects is expanding. Nonsmokers with no fault of their own also suffer the health consequences of tobacco. The involuntary exposure puts them at a greater risk of lung cancers and respiratory conditions like asthma.

“Prevention is better than a cure.” Trying to stop tobacco can cause withdrawal symptoms, which include headaches, tiredness, and mood swings. Nicotine replacement therapy can help, such as nicotine patches or gum, for which professional help is advised. There are a lot of de addiction centres which can provide support.

A dentist will be able to screen for early signs like spots and other pre-malignant conditions. A regular visit to the dentist

It Does Not Matter When You Quit Tobacco

Quitting tobacco is the best way to prevent illness. Every time you smoke, you increase the damage to your mouth and lungs. The moment you stop smoking, your lungs get a chance to recover. Even reducing the amount of usage will reduce your chances of getting oral diseases. So, no matter how long you have used tobacco, quit it now for better health tomorrow.

Quitting Tobacco is Possible

Tobacco is addictive and may cause cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Emotional triggers and situational triggers will have you reaching for a smoke. If you have trouble quitting, consult your doctor. They will prescribe medications to inhibit your cravings. Smoking cessation classes, support groups, herbal remedies, and acupuncture treatments will help you quit smoking and tobacco.