If you smoke, you have probably heard from many well-meaning people that you should quit. From your doctor to your grandchildren, these individuals have your best interests at heart! Indeed, there are many reasons to kick the habit, and if you have recently gotten dentures (or will soon get them), you may find more motivation than ever to say goodbye to cigarettes! This blog post explores how smoking might adversely affect your new smile.
Smoking Causes Dry Mouth
Nicotine and other components of cigarette smoke can decrease saliva flow, which can lead to dry mouth. This issue is always uncomfortable, but it can be even more so with dentures. That is because saliva lubricates and cushions your gums. Without enough of it, your prosthetic is more likely to cause irritation and discomfort.
Smoking Increases Bone Loss
After the natural teeth are removed, the jawbone starts to deteriorate; it shrinks over time. Unfortunately, smoking can accelerate this process. This may mean that your dentures will lose their fit sooner than expected, causing them to slip around in your mouth and cause greater irritation for your oral tissues.
Smoking Increases Your Risk of Gum Disease
Smoking decreases your body’s ability to fight off harmful infections, and it can allow bacteria to thrive in your mouth. As a result, you may be more likely to develop gum disease, a condition that causes your gums to become sensitive and inflamed. Not only is gum disease uncomfortable, but it can also heighten your risk of systemic health conditions, such as heart attack and stroke.
Smoking Can Stain Your Dentures
Just like smoking can stain natural teeth, it can also discolor your dentures. They may turn yellow or brownish over time. While you might be able to reduce staining by keeping your prosthetic clean, your dentures are still likely to lose their original beauty much faster than they would if you were a nonsmoker.
Smoking Can Cause Your Dentures to Smell Bad
No one wants to smell bad! While you might suck on mints and use mouthwash to reduce the mouth odors caused by smoking, there may be little you can do to prevent your prosthetic from absorbing unpleasant smells.
There are countless reasons to quit smoking, and the ways your habit may affect your dentures are just a few. Talk to your primary care physician for practical advice to help you break free from tobacco products forever.
Meet the Practice
At Willow Run Dental Association, we are committed to supporting the oral and overall health of our patients. We provide top-quality dentures and many other services. If you are interested in tooth replacement and how you can make a success out of it, we are ready to answer your questions and provide reasonable support. Get in touch with our friendly team at 207-352-2825.