Gum disease is a debilitating oral health complication that strikes millions of individuals all over the globe. Yet one of the risk factors most least known to bring about gum disease is smoking. Smokers tend to be uninformed about the covert risks associated with their lifestyle in relation to the gums and teeth. Smoking compromises the body’s immune system, making infections, such as gum disease, more difficult for the body to resist. If untreated, it may result in tooth loss and other serious oral conditions. If you are searching for gum disease treatment in Ipswich, knowing how smoking influences your gums and learning the treatment options is vital.
Effect of Smoking on Gums
Smoking has a negative and direct effect on gum health. Chemicals in tobacco have an interference effect on gum tissue cells, leaving the jaw vulnerable to infections by bacteria. Here are some major contributions of smoking towards gum diseases.
1. Insufficient Blood Supply
Smoking causes vasoconstriction, leading to reduced oxygen and nutrition supply to the gums. This results in poor healing of gums in the event of injury or during infections.
2. Weakened Immune System
Smoking affects the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off bacteria and infections. Smokers easily become the victims of gum disease compared to non-smokers.
3. Greater Plaque and Tartar Deposit
Smoking promotes the development of harmful bacteria, resulting in excessive plaque and tartar deposits. These deposits irritate the gums, producing inflammation and infection.
4. Slowed Healing
Smokers who receive dental procedures or operations tend to heal more slowly, which can make gum disease progress and lead to complications.
5. Masking Symptoms of Gum Disease
Smoking may hide the early symptoms of gum disease, including bleeding and inflamed gums. Smokers are not aware that they have gum disease until it has progressed to a severe level.
Stages of Gum Disease in Smokers
Gum disease progresses through different stages, with smokers often experiencing faster disease advancement due to their weakened immune response.
Gingivitis (Early Stage)
Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease, where the gums become red, swollen, and may bleed during brushing or flossing. Smoking makes it harder for the body to fight gingivitis, allowing it to progress quickly.
Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)
If gingivitis is left untreated, it progresses into periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that damages the gums and bone structure supporting the teeth. Smokers are at a much higher risk of periodontitis, which can lead to tooth mobility and loss.
The Connection Between Smoking and Tooth Loss
Studies show that smokers are twice as likely to experience tooth loss compared to non-smokers. This is because:
- Smoking weakens the bone structure that holds teeth in place.
- Smokers’ gums struggle to heal, making it easier for teeth to become loose.
- Gum infections become more aggressive due to a weakened immune system.
If you have loose teeth after quitting smoking, it’s crucial to seek dental care immediately. While quitting smoking is an excellent step towards better oral health, your gums may need professional treatment to recover fully.
Treatment Options for Smokers’ Gums
If you’re a smoker or have recently quit, seeking smokers gums treatment can help restore your oral health and prevent further damage. Here are some common treatment options:
1. Professional Deep Cleaning
A dentist may recommend scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline to reduce inflammation and infection.
2. Antibacterial Treatments
In some cases, dentists may prescribe antimicrobial rinses or gels to help fight bacterial infections in the gums.
3. Laser Therapy
Laser gum therapy is a minimally invasive procedure that targets infected gum tissue while preserving healthy areas, promoting faster healing.
4. Gum Grafts
For severe gum recession, a gum graft may be necessary to cover exposed tooth roots and protect them from further damage.
5. Regular Dental Check-Ups
Routine dental visits are essential for monitoring gum health and detecting issues early. Finding gum disease treatment near you ensures you receive the care needed to keep your gums healthy.
Expert Gum Disease Treatment at Ipswich Bay Dental
At Ipswich Bay Dental, we provide expert gum disease treatment to help you regain healthy gums and a confident smile. If you’re looking for gum disease treatment, our skilled team is here to assist you.Â
Schedule an appointment with a dentist near you today to take the first step toward healthier gums and teeth.
