Stoptober starts now!

STOPTOBER!

If you watch the tv, read the newspapers, listen to the radio, use social media, in fact even just to talk to anyone, you cannot fail to realise that TODAY is the first day of Stoptober – The national campaign to encourage people to stop smoking.  We hope that, if you smoke, you are giving it a go!

But How can smoking affect your oral health?

Most people now know that smoking is bad for their health. 

However, many people don't realise the damage that smoking does to their mouth, gums and teeth.

Smoking can lead to tooth staining, gum disease, tooth loss and - more seriously - mouth cancer.

People who smoke are more likely to have gum disease. Smoking can increase the number of harmful bacteria present in the mouth. It also reduces the blood flow in the gums making them more likely to become inflamed. Smokers' gum disease will get worse more quickly than in people who do not smoke. Because of the reduced blood flow smokers may not get the warning symptoms of bleeding gums as much as non-smokers. Gum disease is still the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.

One of the effects of smoking is staining on the teeth due to the nicotine and tar in tobacco. It can make the teeth yellow in a very short time.

How is smoking linked with cancer?

Most people know that smoking can cause lung and throat cancer, but many people still don't realise that it is one of the main causes of mouth cancer too. There are more and more new cases of mouth cancer each year.

It is important that you visit your dentist regularly, both for a normal check up and a full mouth examination so that any other conditions can be spotted early. 

You should visit your dentist regularly, as often as they recommend. People who smoke may need appointments more often with the dental hygienist.

What can my dentist do for me?

Your dentist will carry out a regular examination to make sure that your teeth and gums and whole mouth are healthy.  

Your dentist will also examine your cheeks, tongue and throat for any signs of other conditions that may need more investigation.

To see a dentist at College Street Dental Centre, call 01730 263180 or email us on info@smileabout.co.uk.

For further information or advice contact College Street Dental Centre in Petersfield, Hampshire on 01730 263180