Effects of Smoking on Oral Hygiene and Orthodontic Treatment.
During the appointment of a 24-year-old male patient, I could see stains on his teeth around the braces which was not a good sign. Upon inquiring I came to know about his habit of smoking. It was quite difficult for me to work because of his poor oral hygiene along with bad breath.
So, I thought of writing to sensitize the community about the ill effects of smoking on oral health, which in turn affects orthodontic treatment.
Smoking discolors the teeth and affects the ability to get aligned. The teeth cannot move in the desired position if the surrounding tissues are not healthy. Healthy gums and healthy teeth go hand in hand with the success of orthodontic treatment. Smoking makes a person’s mouth 80% more prone to plaque, a higher risk for bone loss, and gum diseases than those who don’t smoke.
Smokers’ breath is caused by early stages of gum diseases or dry mouth due to a decrease in saliva production. It exposes the teeth to both tobacco and nicotine, having serious effects: -
- Staining of teeth
- Teeth susceptible to decay, damage, and even tooth loss
- Embarrassing for people to smile because of stains on teeth
- Difficulty in chewing because of teeth loss
- Increased risk of leukoplakia (smoker’s keratosis) which is a thick white patch formed on the gums, insides of the cheeks, the bottom of the mouth, and sometimes, the tongue.
- Oral cancer
Preventing these above problems involves regular brushing, dental checkups, and most importantly quitting smoking.
You can schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Seema Bansal for more informantion.
Very insightful, keep posting more relevant topics like this one!
Thanks 👍
Very useful blog , informative ,such kind of awarness blogs and programs should be conducted in school for young generations.
Thanks Mrs Brinda for commenting.I am glad that you found the information useful.
Nicely explained. Good work
Thanks 👍
Nice information👍
Thanks 👍😊
Really helpful information.Much needed awareness on this topic.Thanks for writing in very good simple words.
Thanks Pournima for commenting .I am glad that you found the information useful.
Very informative
Thanks for the comment.I am glad that you found it informative and helpful.
Extremely informative & helpful. Proividing great insights into dental hygeine.
Thank you Prachi for your comments.I am glad you found it informative
A very useful information. Smoking we know has repercussions but it als affects how braces treatment progresses is a valuable information which many people might not be aware of. Thanks Dr Seema
Thank you Dr Sunanda for your comments