It is common knowledge that smoking is bad for your teeth. But what if you no longer have any of your natural teeth and are going to get dentures instead? Does that mean you can smoke without any concerns about how your habit might affect your smile? Well, no. There are some big reasons why you should quit smoking when you get dentures:
Protect Your Gum Health
Smoking adversely affects your immune system, making it more difficult for your body to fight off gum infections. An infection can cause your gums to become uncomfortable and inflamed; you might find it difficult to wear your dentures if your gums are not healthy. Plus, your dentist might not even approve you to get dentures in the first place if your gums are not in decent condition.
Preserve the Fit of Your Dentures
Usually, dentures fit well for 5 – 7 years before they need to be replaced. They typically need a few adjustments throughout that period so they can rest comfortably and snugly on the gums. The adjustments are necessary as the jawbone gradually changes shape.
Unfortunately, smoking can speed up bone loss in the jaw, causing both it and the gums to shrink. You may find that the fit of your dentures changes sooner than you expected. You might even need to replace them earlier than you anticipated.
Prevent Bad Breath and Stains
Dentures have tiny pores. When you light up a cigarette, the smoke can invade those pores and cause your prosthetic to take on an unpleasant taste and odor. You might not notice it too much because you are used to the smell of cigarette smoke, but the people around you are likely to detect the smell.
Smoking can also stain your dentures, causing them to take on a yellowish hue. This can make you look older than you really are.
Oral Cancer Is a Real Possibility
Regardless of whether you have dentures or natural teeth, smoking is a big risk factor for oral cancer. If you develop cancer, you might have to stop wearing your dentures. Your oral function could be seriously compromised! In a worst-case scenario, oral cancer can even prove to be fatal.
Dentures have the potential to restore your smile and improve your oral function, but they do not go well with smoking. You should do your best to kick the habit so you can maintain a fresh and healthy smile for as long as possible.
Meet the Practice
Comprehensive Dental Associates of Central Connecticut is the home of a large team of general dentists and specialists. We proudly offer traditional dentures, implant dentures, and other tooth replacement options. If you have questions about dental prosthetics or how to care for them, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact our East Hartford office at 860-288-5786.