Did you know smoking can cause serious damage to your oral health beyond just stains or in serious cases, cancer? These habits can weaken your gums, cause tooth loss, and some serious oral health complications. The chemicals in tobacco and vape juice don’t just affect the lungs; they attack your mouth as well. If you smoke or vape, you may be putting your smile at greater risk than you realize. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Gum Disease and Tooth Loss

Smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight infections. This increases the risk of gum disease, which causes swollen, bleeding gums. Over time, gums recede, teeth loosen, and may even fall out. To put things into perspective, smokers are twice as likely to lose teeth compared to non-smokers.

2. Delayed Healing After Dental Procedures

Smoking slows healing after tooth extractions, implants, or gum surgery. This raises the risk of infections and complications. A smoker may take weeks to heal from an extraction, while a non-smoker recovers much faster.

3. Chronic Bad Breath

Tobacco and vape chemicals dry out the mouth, reducing saliva production. Less saliva means more bacteria, leading to persistent bad breath. Even frequent brushing may not fully eliminate the odor.

4. Increased Risk of Oral Cancer

Smoking and vaping expose the mouth to harmful chemicals. Long-term use significantly raises the risk of oral cancer, which can develop on the lips, tongue, or throat. Smokers are six times more likely to get oral cancer than non-smokers.

5. Weakened Enamel and More Cavities

Nicotine reduces blood flow, weakening the body’s ability to repair enamel. Vape juices contain acids that erode enamel, making teeth more prone to decay. This means smokers and vapers may need more fillings and dental work over time.

6. Vaping: A Safer Alternative or Just as Harmful?

Vaping does not contain tar like cigarettes, but it still delivers nicotine and harmful chemicals. Studies show vaping can cause just as much gum inflammation as smoking. Many vape juices also contain sweeteners that increase cavity risk.

How to Protect Your Teeth

• Quit Smoking or Vaping – Stopping will prevent further damage and allow your gums to heal.
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly – Professional cleanings can remove plaque buildup and check for early damage.
• Improve Oral Hygiene – Brushing twice daily, flossing, and using mouthwash helps prevent cavities and gum disease.
• Stay Hydrated – Drinking water prevents dry mouth and reduces bad breath.

If you smoke or vape, it’s never too late to protect your teeth. At our multi-award-winning Scarborough dental clinic, we provide expert dental care to help prevent and reverse damage. Book your appointment today and give your smile the care it deserves!