If you’re a smoker, you’ve probably been told before that smoking is bad for your smile. But what happens when you wear dentures? Products like vapes, cigarettes, and chewing tobacco can’t hurt your natural teeth, but that doesn’t mean they won’t harm your prosthetics! Here are four important reasons why no matter how many teeth you have (or don’t) have, smoking is a dangerous habit that you should do your best to quit!
Reason #1: Increased Bone Loss
When you lose a permanent tooth, your jawbone begins to shrink and change shape without it there to provide stimulation. This is the reason why dentures need to be relined for them to maintain a good fit. Unfortunately, when you smoke or use tobacco products, this deterioration rapidly increases, causing your dentures to lose shape sooner than expected.
Reason #2: Unsightly Stains
If you smoked before you lost your permanent teeth you probably already know that cigarettes, vapes, and chewing tobacco can all stain your teeth. Unfortunately, they can easily discolor your dentures, too. That’s because the tar and chemicals used in these products can get stuck on your prosthetic, causing it to turn yellow or brown.
Reason #3: Terrible Odor
The materials used to make your dentures are slightly porous, which while it does make them seem more lifelike, it also means they are more likely to absorb odor. This is why your dentist recommends you remove them to clean them each time you eat. When you smoke, however, that terrible tobacco odor can get stuck in your denture, causing bad breath, no matter how frequently you clean and soak them.
Reason #4: Denture Discomfort
In addition to the damage smoking causes your dentures, it can also irritate the soft tissues in your mouth. This can result in inflammation, swelling, and sensitivity, and make your dentures feel uncomfortable. It can even make it difficult to eat and speak properly with your prosthetic, defeating the entire purpose of wearing it!
The Solution
Though it may not be easy, it is important that whether you’re missing none, one, multiple, or all your natural teeth, quitting smoking is very important. Not only will it reduce your risk of life-threatening illnesses like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure, it can make your dentures look, smell, and feel better.
Remember, even if you have no remaining real teeth, quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your smile, and for your health. If you need help taking the first step, reach out to your doctor or dentist for help today.
About Our Practice
At Salmon Brook Dental, we are proud to offer a variety of smile-saving treatments under one convenient roof. Whether you need an exam and cleaning, are interested in learning more about porcelain veneers, or you’d like to restore your smile with a beautiful new pair of dentures, we’re here to help. To schedule an appointment for dentures, please visit our website or give us a call at 860-653-4551.