How can we brighten your smile?

Skokie IL Dentist | Tobacco & Your Teeth: The Risks of Chewing and Smoking

Skokie, IL Dentist

Posted on

Skokie Dentist

Chewing and smoking tobacco are known to cause severe health problems, particularly in the lungs. But the risks to your mouth and teeth can be just as extensive and alarming. If you use tobacco, stop. Here’s what tobacco can do to your oral health.

Chewing Tobacco

According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), tobacco chewers increase their risk of developing gum and cheek cancers by 50 times. Tobacco dissolves the gums which leads to sensitivity from exposed roots. This also makes for an ideal location for bacteria to grow, leading to decay. If you are chewing tobacco, stop, and ask our experienced oral health team about what you can do to keep your mouth healthy.

Smoking

According to a report by the AGD, smoking one pack a day can lead to the loss of two teeth each decade of your life. Smoking increases your odds of losing teeth. Cigarettes and cigars are both damaging to your oral health. Smoking can cause staining as well, leading to an unattractive smile.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can develop in several places in your mouth including on your tongue, lips, mouth floor, and gums. Those over 50, are at an increased risk of developing oral cancer, as are men. However, Oral cancer has been on the rise, especially for people under 30 according to the AGD. Schedule an appointment with us to receive a thorough oral health examination, and ask us about an oral cancer screening, particularly if you are a tobacco user. Oral cancer screenings are often very quick as our dentist, Dr. Richard Schmidt, checks your mouth, teeth, and cheeks for signs of irregularities. If caught early, oral cancer can be treated.

If you are a tobacco user, we strongly advise you to quit. You can work with our professional Skokie dental team as well as your doctor to overcome tobacco use. Everyone should be receiving regular oral health examinations, but if you are a tobacco user, you need to be especially vigilant in doing so. Schedule a visit to our office so that we can work with you to identify any potential issues.

For more tips on keeping your mouth healthy or to schedule your next visit to our dental office, Lifetime Dentistry of Skokie, please contact us.

Lifetime Dentistry of Skokie
Phone: (847) 675-7750
4709 W. Golf Road, Suite #112
Skokie, IL 60076

Skokie Dentist Location

Skokie, IL Dentist

4709 W. Golf Rd., Suite 112
Skokie, IL 60076

Office Hours

Monday: 8am-5pm
Tuesday: 8am-5pm or 10am-7pm
Wednesday: Alternating 8am-5pm
Thursday: 7am-4pm
Friday: 7am -12pm or 7am-3pm
Saturday: Alternating 8am-1pm

Lifetime Dentistry of Skokie Dental Updates

Skokie, IL Dentist