Smoking and chewing tobacco products causes gum problems. The severity of risk depends on the frequency of these products you use. More you smoke and chew tobacco products, the more will be the risk of gum problems.
Tobacco products contain nicotine and nitrosamines which are harmful and causes dental diseases and some times leads to the risk of oral cancer. In this article we will discuss how smoking and chewing tobacco leads to gum problems.
Affects the bone and soft tissue
Smoking and chewing tobacco interfere with the attachment of bone and soft tissue to the teeth. Formation of pockets between the teeth and gum leads to the build up of plaque and leads to gum problems.
Interfering with functioning of normal cells
Smoking and chewing tobacco products interfere with the normal functioning of gum tissue cells and are susceptible to gum diseases.
Reduces the flow of blood
It reduces the flow of blood to teeth and gum. Therefore the oxygen and nutrients are not supplied to the gum tissue and gums become inflame and swollen. This creates gap between the teeth and gum, and builds plaque which later leads to gingivitis. If it is untreated, condition becomes worse and leads to periodontal diseases.
Reduces saliva secretions
Smoking and chewing tobacco reduces saliva secretions in mouth. Saliva helps to remove the debris in mouth to protect from dental diseases. Decrease in the saliva secretions makes the mouth dry and there is bacteria growth which leads to gum problems.
Irritates gum tissue
Chewing tobacco contains toxic chemicals that irritates the gum tissue and therefore receding of gums takes place. Therefore root becomes exposed and becomes sensitive to hot and cold. This in turn leads to infection to gum tissue.
Smoking and chewing tobacco not only increases risk for gum diseases, but is also responsible for dental problems like tooth decay, discoloration of teeth, sensitivity to hot and cold, and oral cancers.
Many of these problems can be cured, but the best way of treatment is quitting smoking and other tobacco related products.