Tobacco & Your Teeth: The Risks of Chewing and Smoking | Dentist Bessemer AL

Tobacco & Your Teeth: The Risks of Chewing and Smoking | Dentist Bessemer AL

Dentist Bessemer

Dentist in 35022

Chewing and smoking tobacco are known to cause severe health problems, particularly in the lungs. But the risks to your mouth and teeth can be just as extensive and alarming. If you use tobacco, stop. Here’s what tobacco can do to your oral health.

Chewing Tobacco

According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), tobacco chewers increase their risk of developing gum and cheek cancers by 50 times. Tobacco dissolves the gums which leads to sensitivity from exposed roots. This also makes for an ideal location for bacteria to grow, leading to decay. If you are chewing tobacco, stop, and ask our dentist in 35022 about what you can do to keep your mouth healthy.

Smoking

According to a report by the AGD, smoking one pack a day can lead to the loss of two teeth each decade of your life. Smoking increases your odds of losing teeth. Cigarettes and cigars are both damaging to your oral health. Smoking can cause staining as well, leading to an unattractive smile. 

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can develop in several places in your mouth including on your tongue, lips, mouth floor, and gums. Those over 50, are at an increased risk of developing oral cancer, as are men. However, Oral cancer has been on the rise, especially for people under 30 according to the AGD.  Schedule an appointment with us to receive a thorough oral health examination, and ask us about an oral cancer screening, particularly if you are a tobacco user. Oral cancer screenings are often very quick as our dentist checks your mouth, teeth, and cheeks for signs of irregularities. If caught early, oral cancer can be treated by our Bessemer dental team.

If you are a tobacco user, we strongly advise you to quit. You can work with our professional dental team as well as your doctor to overcome tobacco use. Everyone should be receiving regular oral health examinations and dental cleanings, but if you are a tobacco user, you need to be especially vigilant in doing so. Schedule a visit to our office so that we can work with you to identify any potential issues. 

For more tips on keeping your mouth healthy or to schedule your next visit to our Bessemer, AL dental office, please contact us.

Dorsett Dental Care of Bessemer
Phone: 205-882-8060
4000 Pine Ln SE
Bessemer, AL 35022

Contact Us

Dentist Bessemer

Office Hours

Monday: 7am - 3pm
Tuesday: 8am - 5pm
Wednesday: 8am - 5pm
Thursday: 8am - 5pm
Friday: By Appointment Only

Dental News in bessemer

Dentist Bessemer

September, 2023

Do I Really Need an Exam? | Bessemer ...

It’s highly likely that after visiting our practice, you understand the value of a thorough...

Read More >>

September, 2023

4 Ways to Achieve Optimal Oral Health...

We are pleased to offer a variety of solutions to keep your smile healthy. We are also able to cu...

Read More >>

August, 2023

An Important Reminder About Your Next...

​​At times, life can seem to move quickly. Between work, school, sports, and social events, it ca...

Read More >>