If you’re a smoker, chances are you’ve been warned about the potential health hazards. After all, tobacco retailers are forced to place a warning label on their products. There is an additional, and often overlooked, side effect of using tobacco products: dry mouth. It can contribute to a host of oral health problems. As you continue reading, learn about the potential issues that could arise and what you can do to prevent them.
The Problems with Dry Mouth
At any given time, there can be up to 20 billion bacteria living inside your mouth. However, when the mouth becomes dry, the number of microorganisms present can exponentially increase. That’s because saliva helps to flush away bacteria to maintain an equilibrium in the mouth, which decreases the chances of experiencing tooth and gum decay – and even tooth loss.
Here are some potentially fatal problems that tobacco usage and having a dry mouth can contribute to:
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Oral cancer
- Heart disease
- Cardiac arrest
- Pancreatic cancer
- High blood pressure
What Can be Done?
It’s always important to practice excellent oral hygiene, but it’s especially crucial if you’re a tobacco user. At a minimum, you should be brushing and flossing two times a day to control bacteria growth. There is yet more you can do to achieve a measure of balance.
Consider the following:
- Increasing your water intake
- Using a saline nasal spray two to three times a day
- Chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production
- Limiting your consumption of sugary foods and beverages
Ultimately, the best way to protect yourself is to stop smoking or chewing tobacco. However, if that remains a struggle, implementing the above tactics can help to limit the negative side effects.
How a Dentist Can Help
Under normal circumstances, patients should visit a dentist every six months for cleanings and examinations. For tobacco users, it’s probably best to visit more frequently – maybe every three months instead. The reality is that tobacco products constantly work to undermine your efforts. Therefore, it’s best to stay on top of your oral health to prevent any serious issues from developing. By being more proactive and receiving some extra attention, you’ll have a better chance of preserving all your teeth and protecting your gums.
There is another intangible that you can receive from maintaining regular visits: the extra encouragement to make positive changes in your oral and total wellness. To protect yourself, reach out to a local dentist today!
About the Author
Dr. Wael M. Kassem earned his dental degree from Temple University. For over a decade, he has been offering high-quality care, using state-of-the-art equipment. As part of his commitment to excellence, Dr. Kassem has taken several hours of continuing education, which has contributed to him being named one of America’s top dentists many years in a row. He treats patients at iSmile Dental Arts, and he can be reached for more information through his website.
