Many people know how smoking can affect their oral health. Their teeth might become stained amid many other consequences. However, this habit can also impact your full smile with dentures. While it might not seem this way at first, quitting can boost your grin in several ways. Here are four reasons why you should stop smoking once you get this tooth replacement.
Preserves Your Gum Health
When you smoke, your gums may start to swell. The chemicals in it cause this, but they also weaken your immune system. Your body will have a harder time fighting off infections, like those in your mouth. Because of this, you put yourself at a higher risk of periodontal disease.
This condition can make the soft tissues underneath your dentures inflamed or noticeably red. Your prosthetic may be more uncomfortable to wear, and your jawbone may shrink. All this to say that the fit might be off, and you won’t feel confident biting into your meals.
Lowers Risk of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a worrying issue that patients would never wish for their smile. It can affect anyone, but smokers may be more prone to it. Not only that, but it’s easy to miss the early warning signs because of the symptoms mentioned above. You may not be able to notice any changes as quickly. By quitting this habit, you can lower your chances of this condition and keep better track of your dental health.
Prevents Dry Mouth
Smoking can damage and burn your salivary glands. They can reduce how much saliva you produce, but tobacco in general also causes dry mouth. When you can’t make adequate levels, then bacteria will be able to hang out on your smile for longer and attack your gums. This can then turn into an infection that is troublesome.
Saliva also acts like a lubricant for your dentures. Without it, you may notice uncomfortable rubbing that can cause sores. Drinking plenty of water and stopping this habit can help you have a better experience with this prosthetic.
Regain Your Sense of Smell and Taste
As a smoker, you likely are familiar with the odor it can cause. The scent can stick and persist around things, but it can also cling to your dentures. This can then turn into an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
Instead of being able to flaunt your grin confidently, you might be embarrassed about bad breath. However, quitting your tobacco usage can get back your sense of smell and taste; that way, you can also start to enjoy your favorite foods.
While you might already know how important it is to quit smoking, it can be even more crucial in helping you have a more comfortable time with dentures. By doing so, you’ll be able to feel better when showing off your restored grin.
About the Practice
At Great Lakes Dental Excellence, our team is proud to serve patients in New Baltimore with compassionate, high-quality dental care. Led by Dr. Shawn Van de Vyver and Dr. Nicole DeBellis, we offer dentures and a full range of restorative solutions to help you reclaim a confident, healthy smile. If you have this prosthetic and are concerned about how smoking may be affecting your oral health, we’re here to help. To get toward better oral health, schedule an appointment or call our office at (586) 725–5500.