As we enter November 2023, it's essential that we pause and consider our dental health. While most of us focus on brushing and flossing regularly, one habit can significantly compromise it: smoking.

Smoking not only impacts our respiratory health but also our oral wellbeing. Cigarettes contain harmful chemicals which may contribute to gum disease, tooth decay and oral cancer - among many other issues.

Gum disease is one of the most prevalent dental issues caused by smoking. Cigarettes contain harmful chemicals which irritate and inflame gums, leaving them more prone to infection and vulnerable. Left untreated, this infection could eventually result in tooth loss and bone damage.

Tooth decay is another significant consequence of smoking, with reductions in saliva leading to dry mouth. Saliva helps neutralize acids that contribute to tooth decay; without enough of it, these acids build up and wear away at our enamel and cause cavities.

At its core, smoking can cause significant dental health risks, with oral cancer being one of the greatest. Smokers are six times more likely to contract oral cancer due to chemicals found in cigarettes affecting cell DNA and leading to abnormal cell division and eventual tumor development.

Not just smokers are at risk; second-hand smoke can have disastrous repercussions for oral health as well. Children living in households where there are smokers are more likely to develop tooth decay and gum disease, as well as respiratory issues like asthma.

Are we wondering how to best safeguard our dental health if we smoke? The solution is straightforward: quit. Not only will quitting improve overall health, but it will also significantly lower the risk of dental issues.

If you're having difficulty quitting, there are various resources available to you to assist in your efforts. Nicotine patches, gum and lozenges may all help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while counseling or support groups may provide valuable support.

Apart from quitting smoking, there are other things you can do to protect your dental health. First and foremost is brushing and flossing regularly - this will remove any plaque or bacteria that could lead to gum disease or tooth decay.

Second, visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can identify early warning signs of dental problems and treat them before they become more serious, while providing tips to improve oral health and reduce future dental problems.

Avoid habits that could compromise your dental health, such as excessive alcohol consumption and poor diet. Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can strengthen both teeth and gums while restricting sugary or acidic foods can lower your risk of tooth decay.

As previously discussed, our dental health is an integral component of overall wellbeing. Smoking can significantly damage our teeth and gums, leading to various dental conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. If you smoke, quitting is the single best thing you can do for your oral wellbeing - although brushing and flossing regularly as well as visiting a dentist regularly and following a healthy diet can all also help safeguard their future wellbeing.