In 2023, the estimated number of smokers in the UK is approximately 14% of the population or 8 million adults. Although in the last 10 years there has been a statistically significant decline, this is still a huge number considering the health implications of smoking.
Smoking has a huge impact on all aspects of your health and wellbeing. Smoking is the leading cause of cancer. It is responsible for 7 out of 10 cases of lung cancer, but it is also responsible for many other different types of cancers including mouth cancer, throat cancer, stomach cancer, bowel cancer and cervical cancer. It is responsible for a range of cardiovascular conditions, including arteriosclerosis, increased blood pressure, increased cholesterol levels, heart attack and stroke. Smoking can cause respiratory disorders, including chronic cough, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, including bronchitis, emphysema, and pneumonia. It can worsen conditions such as asthma and it can weaken your immune system.
Poor dental health
Another major consequence of smoking is poor dental health. It is very important that smokers visit our dentist Liverpool more often than other patients. If you are a smoker you need to be visiting our dentist Liverpool at least three times a year. You need to undergo a thorough examination of your teeth and gums and you also need to have your teeth professionally cleaned by our hygienist.
Tooth decay and gum disease from smoking
As well as checking your teeth, our dentist at Liverpool Smile Studio will check your cheeks, tongue and other soft tissues of the mouth. Any changes in the mouth or any signs of abnormalities can be detected early if you visit our dentist on a regular basis. Our dentist Liverpool will examine your teeth and gums for any signs of cavities, tooth decay and gum disease. This is because smokers are more susceptible to these issues. More plaque and tartar build up on the teeth than in comparison to non-smokers’ teeth. This is because the nicotine in tobacco reduces saliva production, making it easier for plaque and tartar to build up in the mouth. Plaque is a combination of saliva, food, particles, and bacteria. The reduced flow of saliva means that it remains in the mouth and sticks to the surface of the teeth. Bacteria in the plaque and saliva release acids and toxins which harm the teeth and gums. This results in cavities and tooth decay and it also results in gum disease.
Smoking tobacco causes a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream, which means that infected gums are unable to heal properly. This causes a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Symptoms of gum disease include bleeding gums, soreness, tenderness, and swelling. It will be difficult to shift these symptoms if you continue to smoke. You need to speak to a dentist and you need to seek professional help for smoking cessation. The health complications connected to smoking can have a devastating impact on you and your loved ones. You need to stop smoking as soon as possible and restore your good health and wellbeing. Speak to our dentist at Liverpool Smile Studio to find out how we have the tools to help you cease and to restore your dental health.