Using Tobacco and Its Link to Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, which is more commonly called gum disease, is linked to many serious health conditions. Risk factors for periodontal disease include poor oral hygiene, age, genetic factors, certain health conditions and tobacco use. In fact, smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for not just the development but also the progression of gum disease.
Smoking and tobacco use can lead to the loss of the bone and soft tissue that support the teeth. Smoking also reduces healthy blood flow that promotes healing. Untreated periodontal disease can cause infection, pain, and bone and tooth loss. Gum disease is extremely common in Americans and is even more common in smokers, with twice as many daily smokers suffering gum disease-related tooth loss as nonsmokers. Furthermore, smokers often suffer from periodontal treatment complications.
Quitting smoking can be extremely difficult, particularly for those who have been lifelong smokers. The benefits of quitting begin soon after your last cigarette. In fact, within minutes, your blood pressure will return to normal, and your carbon monoxide levels drop hours later. By the time a few days have passed, your body will be 100 percent nicotine-free and well on its way to healing. Within two weeks, blood circulation within the gums and teeth will have been restored to a normal, healthy level.
Our dentist in Los Angeles is committed to helping you improve your oral health. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule your appointment.