Tooth loss can make life difficult in many ways. Getting dentures can both restore your smile and get your daily routine back to normal. However, if you’re a smoker, that may be one habit you’ll need to break for the sake of your mouth going forward. Smoking can have a harmful effect on your prosthetics and your overall oral health. But what’s the big deal? Continue reading to see why quitting smoking is a good idea once you get dentures.
Keeps Your Dentures Fitting Well
One of the main issues smokers face after getting dentures is poor fit. Smoking affects the soft tissues in your mouth like your gums, causing them to harden to protect themselves. This can lead to dentures that no longer fit properly, discomfort, sores, and difficulty eating or speaking. Once you let go of the habit, your gums can start to return to normal, ensuring that your dentures fit better and last longer.
Keeps Your Body Healthy
Smoking weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. This not only helps your body fight off systemic infections but also keeps your mouth healthy as well. Inflammation in your gums caused by cigarette smoke can lead to an increased risk of gum disease and even trigger oral cancer.
Improves the Appearance and Smell of Your Dentures
One of the more noticeable effects of smoking is the staining it causes on dentures. While the ceramic teeth of these prosthetics are somewhat stain-resistant, nicotine and tar from cigarettes can leave behind unsightly yellow or brown discoloration.
Additionally, smoking can cause persistent bad breath, which can be embarrassing and difficult to manage. Finding resources to help you quit smoking can keep your mouth looking cleaner and smelling fresher!
Quitting smoking is a challenging but worthwhile decision, especially when you have dentures. By kicking the habit, you can protect your oral health, ensure your dentures fit properly, and enjoy a better quality of life. However, this is all easier said than done. If you need help reducing your dependence on cigarettes, talk to your dentist. They have access to resources that can greatly improve your chances and put you on the path to a happier mouth and a more brilliant smile.
About the Author
Dr. Joe Ornelas is a skilled and committed dentist who truly cares for the well-being of his patients. After graduating from the Indiana University School of Dentistry he began expanding his skills, continuing his education and to better serve his patients with new technologies and techniques. Call (219) 663-2892 to schedule a denture consultation at Ornelas Family Dental of Crown Point or visit our website to see a full menu of the services we offer.