Dentures have allowed millions of people to enjoy having full smiles again after extensive tooth loss. When they fit properly, they are so comfortable that patients forget that they’re wearing them and so lifelike that casual observers won’t be able to tell that they’re there. While dentures can replace all the teeth in the mouth, having them does not absolve the patient from practicing oral hygiene and avoiding things that can harm their oral health. Here’s why quitting smoking is an excellent idea if you wear dentures.
What Happens If I Smoke While Wearing Dentures?
When exposed to tobacco smoke, the gums harden to protect themselves from the harsh chemicals it contains. However, having to do this frequently can exhaust your gum tissue and cause it to atrophy and recede, causing problems with the way your dentures fit. A poorly fitting pair of dentures can cause irritation, cuts, and sores that can become infected to form within the mouth or difficulty with speaking and chewing. Luckily, the soft layer of your gums will regenerate after you quit smoking.
Tobacco use can also lead to unsightly stains developing on the crowns of your dentures just like it can with real teeth. This can be a major detriment to the nice smile your dentures are supposed to provide you with.
How Does Smoking Affect the Health of My Gums?
One of nicotine’s side effects is that it causes the blood vessels in the mouth and body to constrict, making it harder for the body to distribute blood and fight infection. This makes it harder for your gum tissue to heal and makes them more vulnerable to infections link gingivitis or periodontitis. This can accelerate the loss of bone mass in the jaw, detracting from the patient’s youthful appearance and causing them to develop an elderly and withered appearance.
While smoking is terrible for your overall health, it can cause a particular set of problems for people who wear dentures. By quitting the tobacco habit, you can save hundreds or thousands of dollars every year while keeping your restored smile shiny and white.
About the Practice
Texas Dentistry and Braces delivers excellent dental health services to the community of Mesquite, TX. Led by a team of seven doctors, the staff ensures that each patient receives courteous and compassionate treatment in a warm and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry in addition to denture services. For more information on caring for your dentures, contact the office online or dial (972) 329-4200.