Are you trying to quit your smoking habit? Some people cite the look of their teeth as the reason they decided to quit smoking. While preserving your smile is a great reason to quit smoking, there are more serious health reasons as to why you should consider a smoking cessation program. When it comes to oral health, smoking can have a profound and lasting impact. Here are just a few ways smoking can impact your teeth and gums.

Smoking And Dental Implants

Dental implants are extremely effective in most patients, but in smokers the failure rate can be twice that of non-smokers. In many cases, a dentist will not discuss dental implants as an option with you until you have quit smoking. Other forms of tooth replacement, such as bridges or dentures can work for smokers, but they don't yield he same results as implants. Your dentist can help you work out a plan to improve your chances of implant success. Talk with a place like Woodland Family Dental for more information.

Smoking And Gum Disease

Smoking can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. This weakened state can make smokers susceptible to gum disease. The CDC reports that the risk of getting gum disease doubles for smokers, and it increases the more you smoke every day. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and even some more serious health problems. Remember that while gum disease may be treatable, some of the treatments are not as effective for smokers, making it more difficult to get rid of.

Smoking And Halitosis

Smoking can cause bad breath, which might not be a major health concern to everyone, but it can certainly impact your social life. You can immediately improve your breath by quitting smoking. If you continue to have problems with bad breath, contact your dentist, as it can also be a sign of gum disease. Since smokers are more likely to get gum disease, you may be dealing with two causes of bad breath.

How To Care For Your Teeth

While any dentist will tell you to quit smoking, there are a few things you can do to maintain your oral health as a smoker. If you choose not to quit or you are in the process of quitting, you'll want to brush your teeth and floss more often. Use mouthwash and a tongue cleaner to keep your entire mouth as clean and free from bacteria as possible. Be sure to make regular cleaning appointments with your dentist, and discuss any symptoms or discomfort you may be experiencing.

Smoking can impact your oral health and the beauty of your smile. Consider these reasons to quit smoking and get back on the road to better oral health.