While most people know smoking and vaping can cause lung cancer, many do not know the impact these addictive habits can have on your oral health. Smokers and those who use alternatives, like vapes, are at a much higher risk of developing conditions such as gum disease, mouth cancer, and tooth loss, which often require extensive treatment. At Parsons Smile Center, we can help you better understand the impact of smoking and vaping on oral health and the treatment options available to restore your smile.
Dr. Fady Salha has practiced dentistry for over 30 years, giving him extensive knowledge about oral health and risk factors that can lead to tooth and gum damage. Our dedicated team works closely with you to help you understand the effects smoking or vaping has had on your oral health, along with the best path forward to renew your smile’s health and appearance. In our comfortable offices, we utilize the latest technology to provide the exceptional care and laser-focused attention you deserve.
How Do Smoking and Vaping Impact Your Oral Health?
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 22% of people in the U.S. aged 12 or older reported using tobacco products or vaping nicotine in the past 30 days in 2021. While many think vaping is a healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes, both tobacco and e-liquids in vaping devices contain chemicals that can have a negative effect on your oral health in the following ways:
Appearance
Smoking and vaping can affect your smile’s appearance and lead to teeth staining and discoloration. Smoking can also lead to keratosis, which is the whitening of the mouth’s soft tissue, including the tongue, lips, cheeks, gums, and throat. This can make you self-conscious about your smile and cause you to avoid showing it off in pictures or when speaking to others.
Increased Risk of Oral Health Problems
In addition to affecting your smile’s physical appearance, smoking and vaping can increase your risk of developing serious oral health conditions, including the following:
- Mouth cancer: Smoking is one of the main risk factors for oral cancer, which may display symptoms such as a persistent ulcer that doesn’t disappear after seven to 10 days, a white or red patch in the mouth, swelling, and dentures suddenly not fitting properly.
- Gum disease: Smoking or vaping can cause people to produce more plaque and restrict blood flow to the gums. This can lead to gum disease, which is caused by an infection that weakens the gums and teeth.
- Tooth loss: If gum disease is left untreated, the gums can no longer support the teeth, causing teeth to loosen and fall out. We may have to remove and replace severely damaged teeth with implants, bridges, inlays, or onlays.
Smoking and vaping can also leave a bad taste in your mouth and decreased taste of food and beverages. If you smoke or vape, it is essential to see our professional team at Parsons Smile Center regularly to maintain your oral health and address any problems right away.
Slow Healing
While your gums can heal after quitting smoking or vaping, your immune system may have a more challenging time fighting the infection, causing slower healing. The body’s difficulty repairing damage may lead to dry socket, increased pain after surgery, and a higher risk of complications after procedures.
Restore Oral Health Affected by Smoking and Vaping at Parsons Smile Center
Smoking and vaping can significantly impact your oral health, increasing the risk of gum disease, mouth cancer, and tooth loss. At Parsons Smile Center, we help you understand these risks and offer treatment options to restore your smile. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Fady Salha provides comprehensive care using the latest technology, ensuring you receive the best possible treatment for any smoking or vaping-related oral health issues.
Our team is dedicated to helping you regain a healthy smile through personalized care and attention. We utilize advanced techniques to address oral health concerns resulting from smoking or vaping, working closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Contact Parsons Smile Center today at (212) 223-5100 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.
