Periodontal Disease & Tobacco

You are probably familiar with the links between tobacco use and lung disease, cancer and heart disease.

Current studies have now linked periodontal disease with tobacco usage. These cases may be even more severe than those of non-user of tobacco. There is a greater incidence of tartar formation on teeth, deeper pockets between gums and teeth as well as greater loss of the bone and fibers that hold teeth in your mouth. In addition, your chance of developing oral cancer increases with the use of smokeless tobacco.

Chemicals in tobacco, such as nicotine and tar, slow down healing and the predictability of success following periodontal treatment.

Problems caused by tobacco include:

Lung Disease
Heart Disease
Cancer Mouth Sores
Gum Recession
Loss of Bone and Teeth
Bad Breath
Tooth Staining Less Successful With Periodontal Treatment and With Dental Implants

Quitting tobacco will reduce the chance of developing the above problems.

For Existing Sunshine Dental Patients - In the Event of a Dental Emergency Call: (315) 681-0100*

*We will try our best to return all calls, but we are not “on-call”. This number is intended to be a resource, and not a substitute for emergency care. If it is a true emergency, please contact your nearest emergency room.

315-779-8080 Fax: 315-779-8085 • 140 Eastern Blvd., Watertown, NY 13601 •

email: sunshinedental@nnymail.com