Want to maintain good oral health, but still want to smoke cigarettes?
Smoking has a huge impact on the health of your teeth and gums. However…
With the right information, oral hygiene practices, and tools smokers can greatly lessen the harm and keep their teeth and gums healthy for many years to come.
Table of Contents
- The Connection Between Smoking and Oral Health
- Daily Habits That Matter Most
- Professional Care Tips
- Smoker’s Oral Health Products
- Warning Signs to Look For
- Putting It All Together
The Connection Between Smoking and Oral Health
Smoking has a direct and negative effect on the mouth. However, these effects are often not as well-known or understood by smokers as they should be.
Every time a person inhales and exhales smoke from cigarettes, it changes the natural balance within the mouth. The hot temperatures along with the chemicals and tar create a challenging environment for teeth and gums.
In fact…
Smoking can impact the mouth by:
- decreasing the blood flow and oxygen to the gums
- drying the mouth out and reducing saliva production
- causing stains on the teeth
- affecting the smell of the mouth
- hardening of the gums
A combination of these effects makes for oral health challenges down the road.
The effects on the blood supply and gum health are particularly important.
Reduced blood flow means less oxygen and nutrients reach the soft tissues of the mouth. This weakens them over time, making them more susceptible to disease.
Smoking also dries out the mouth, reducing saliva production. Saliva is the natural defence against bacteria and cavities. Without enough of it, harmful bacteria can flourish.
These effects are consistent no matter which cigarette brand you choose to smoke – from premium options such as dumont cigarettes and other brands.
The CDC also has an article on the Facts and Stats on Tobacco Use and Oral Health that you can read which mentions:
…adult smokers were about twice as likely to have untreated cavities in their teeth as adult non-smokers (42.7% vs. 20.7%)…
Keep in mind, that even with these effects, there are things you can do to protect your oral health.
Daily Habits That Matter Most
Daily oral hygiene practices are the foundation of healthy teeth and gums. For smokers, these habits take on an even greater importance.
Brush More Frequently
Brushing after each meal and before bed is the recommended minimum for non-smokers. Smokers would benefit from even more frequent brushing.
Why?
Tar and other chemicals from cigarette smoke can build up on teeth and gums. This can lead to staining and other problems.
Brushing more frequently, especially after smoking, can help remove these harmful substances.
A soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste should be used. Brush for at least two minutes each session, and focus on the gum line where many problems begin.
Floss Everyday
Daily flossing is non-negotiable for smokers.
Food particles and bacteria can get trapped between teeth and along the gum line, leading to cavities and gum disease.
Flossing helps remove this buildup. It disrupts the growth of harmful bacteria, keeping gums healthier longer.
Drink More Water
Hydration is key.
As mentioned earlier, smoking reduces saliva production, which helps keep the mouth clean. Drinking water helps replenish lost moisture.
Aim to drink eight glasses of water per day. Carry a refillable water bottle as a reminder.
Use Mouthwash Wisely
An antibacterial mouthwash can add another layer of protection against bacteria and cavities.
Choose an alcohol-free formula. Alcohol dries out the mouth further, which is not what a smoker needs.
Swish for at least 30 seconds, then spit it out.
Professional Care Tips
Home care is important, but regular professional care takes oral health to the next level.
Visit the Dentist More Often
Regular dental visits are important for all adults. However, smokers should consider seeing their dentist every three to four months instead of twice a year.
Dentists are trained to spot early signs of gum disease, tooth decay, and other issues before they become serious. The earlier a problem is caught, the easier it is to treat.
Professional cleanings also remove tartar buildup that cannot be removed by brushing at home. Smokers are more likely to develop tartar, so frequent cleanings help manage this issue.
Get Regular Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screenings are a must for smokers.
Smoking is one of the leading risk factors for oral cancer. Regular screenings allow for early detection when treatment is most effective.
Most dentists offer oral cancer screening as part of a routine checkup. If not, ask if they provide a more comprehensive exam that includes looking at the back of the tongue, inside the cheeks, the throat, and even the lymph nodes.
Consider Deep Cleanings
Regular dental cleanings target the tooth surface above the gum line. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is more extensive.
Deep cleanings target the areas below the gum line where bacteria tend to accumulate. For smokers with early signs of gum disease, this procedure can help prevent the condition from progressing and may even reverse some of the damage.
Smoker’s Oral Health Products
Certain products can make a big difference in your daily oral care routine. Here are some products to consider.
Electric Toothbrushes
Research has shown that electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque than manual brushing. For smokers, who need to deal with extra buildup, the benefits are even greater.
Look for an electric toothbrush with pressure sensors. Brushing too hard can damage already-compromised gums.
Tongue Scrapers
Smoke residue accumulates on the tongue as well. This contributes to bad breath and bacterial buildup.
Using a tongue scraper daily is an easy way to remove this residue. Tongue scrapers are simple and surprisingly effective.
Specialty Toothpastes
There are toothpastes designed specifically for smokers. These products have ingredients to help remove tar stains and restore the natural colour of teeth.
There are also toothpastes that focus on gum health with antibacterial properties. Either of these options is more effective than standard toothpaste for the specific needs of smokers.
Saliva Substitutes
Dry mouth is a common complaint among smokers. Artificial saliva products can provide relief.
These are available as sprays, gels, or lozenges. They coat the mouth with a film and provide moisture to help when natural saliva is lacking.
Warning Signs to Look For
Of course, the best care is taking place before there is a problem. However, that’s not always the case.
Pay attention to warning signs so you can address potential issues before they become serious.
Watch for these symptoms:
- bleeding gums while brushing or flossing
- persistent bad breath
- receding gums or teeth appearing longer
- loose teeth or changes in bite
- white or red patches in the mouth
- sores that do not heal within 14 days
If you notice any of these symptoms, make a dentist appointment. Do not wait for the next scheduled visit.
The CDC provides this graph of tooth loss by smoking status that clearly shows smokers are 3 times more likely to have lost all their natural teeth compared to non-smokers.
Early intervention can prevent this.
Putting It All Together
Protecting oral health as a smoker takes work. But it is work that can have a big payoff.
The above information is actionable and effective. The advice given has worked for thousands of smokers who want to take care of their teeth and gums.
The most important points to remember:
- Brush your teeth at least twice per day (better if three times)
- Floss every single day
- Stay hydrated
- Visit the dentist every 3-4 months
- Get regular oral cancer screenings
- Use products that help with the additional needs of a smoker
These aren’t difficult steps to take. They just require consistency and discipline.
The damage caused by smoking is real and cause for concern. However, it does not have to be devastating.
Smokers who take proactive steps today can protect the health of their mouths for years to come. The mouth is resilient when it receives the right care and attention it deserves.
Start today. Your teeth and gums will thank you.
The owners and authors of Cinnamon Hollow are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice. We cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research and consult with your personal physician before using.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
