Smoking and Periodontal Disease
More than 4,000 different toxins
are present in cigarette smoke.
They include carbon monoxide,
oxidizing radicals, nitrosamines,
and nicotine. Fifty percent of
smokers will die from a smoke
related disease.
Other than the many systemic diseases associated with tobacco use, there are many oral conditions attributed to it, such as:
- Oral cancer
- Dental cavities
- Periodontal disease
- Partial and complete tooth loss
The effects of cigarette smoking on periodontal disease increases with the amount smoked. Smokers have fewer teeth and higher rates of total tooth loss as compared to nonsmokers.
Smoking creates an environment for periodontal-causing bacteria to exist and to thrive. Smokers have higher levels of periodontal pathogenic bacteria than nonsmokers. Smoking one pack per day for 20 years or two packs for ten years will cause a 20 percent loss in bone.
Long-term studies reveal that the majority of tooth loss in 19 to 40 year olds is associated with those smoking more than ten cigarettes per day.
Smoking also has a detrimental effect on wound healing after surgical and non-surgical periodontal treatment. Nonsmokers respond better to periodontal therapy than smokers.
Smoking is a significant contributor to many diseases. If you smoke, try to quit. If you don't smoke, don't start.
Dr. Nicky M Hakimi DDS, Periodontist - Providing services in Cosmetic Dentistry, Periodontics and Periodontal Disease Treatment to the areas of Roseville and Sacramento, California.
1420 E. Roseville Pkwy, Suite 230 Roseville, CA 95661
Ph. 916.788.1114, Fx. 916.788.1353
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