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Smoking Cessation

Did you know? Those who smoke less than ten cigarettes per day are twice as likely to develop gum disease, and this increases to four to five times in heavier smokers. 

Many studies have shown that smoking and using tobacco products has a detrimental effect on your teeth and gums. We see the effects of smoking on teeth and gums almost every day, and we can’t stress enough how vital it is to quit smoking in order to save your oral health!

What Does Smoking Do to Your Teeth?

Tobacco affects the gum tissue cells, making smokers more prone to dental problems and other negative effects, including:

  • Tooth infections
  • Gum disease / periodontal disease
  • Bad breath
  • Stained teeth
  • Jawbone loss
  • Shrinking gums
  • Mouth sores
  • Decreased senses of taste and smell
  • Poor healing of mouth sores
  • Hairy tongue

This infection of the gums can affect the bone structure that supports your teeth. In severe cases, it can make your teeth fall out.

Mouth Cancer

Around 8,300 people are diagnosed with mouth cancer each year in the UK, and around two in every three mouth cancers are linked to smoking. Mouth cancer can start in different parts of the mouth, including the lips, salivary glands, tongue, gums, palate and inside of the cheeks. Smoking causes at least 15 types of cancer.

We advise regular smokers to visit us for mouth cancer screening on at least an annual basis. During the screening, we conduct a thorough examination of your whole mouth, including the use of a handheld scanning device that is used to examine any lumps or lesions that you might have.

Smoking Cessation in London

As dental professionals, it is important for us to tell you the risks of ongoing smoking and to help you to quit by giving you information and support. By cutting down and stopping smoking or using tobacco products, your oral health will benefit very quickly, and you will notice certain changes in your mouth. 

It is essential that you come into the practice for regular check-ups so we can help you maintain good oral health and give you advice and encouragement. 

For more information or for advice and support, please get in touch.

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