It is a well-known and well-documented fact that smoking is injurious to health. In addition to many other bodily health problems, smoking can cause significant damage to teeth and gums. For example, smoking stains on teeth is a common complaint. However, if smokers do not take proper care of their oral health, the habit can also lead to cavities, gum disease, and other complicated dental issues.
Of course, the best way to prevent dental damage is to quit smoking. But this is not an easy task. While they try to quit the habit altogether, smokers must focus on extra dental care. Here are six tips that smokers will find helpful in keeping healthy teeth and gums:
Brushing & Flossing Properly
Brushing and flossing are part of basic dental hygiene. These two activities should be performed daily: brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. Moreover, it is significant to adopt the right method of brushing and flossing.
For example, you should brush for at least two minutes and cover as many surfaces of the mouth as possible. Ask your dentist to guide you on the correct way of brushing and flossing. Experts also believe that brushing after each time you smoke can reduce smoking stains on teeth.
Cleaning the Tongue
It may come across as a surprise to many, but keeping your tongue clean is also part of healthy dental hygiene. The tongue is an easy breeding ground for bacteria. If these bacteria are not removed, it can cause bad breath and even dull your sense of taste. Therefore, each time you brush your teeth, gently clean your tongue too with your toothbrush.
Avoid Stain-causing Foods
Smoking is going to stain your teeth. While there are methods (natural and professional dental treatments), that can help to clean tobacco stains, you must avoid further damage from stain-causing foods and beverages.
Use a Mouthwash
In addition to brushing and flossing, incorporating a quality mouthwash in your oral hygiene routine can be quite helpful. Several antibacterial mouthwashes can help fight bacteria in your mouth encouraged by smoking.
You can ask your dentist to recommend a mouthwash. Some of them can also help with smoking stains on teeth.
Regular Dental Exams & Cleanings
Regular dental check-ups and dental cleanings are important even when you do not smoke at all. However, smokers should be extra cautious about not missing their scheduled dental check-ups and cleanings.
Regular exams can detect oral health problems early on and professional cleanings can assist in keeping the teeth and gums healthy.
Keep a Self-Check
Between your check-ups, it is important to self-track your dental health. Regularly check your teeth, gums, and other areas of the mouth for any abnormalities. If you experience persistent pain, swelling, bleeding, sores, lesions, discomfort, or anything unusual, report to your dentist immediately.
It is also important to consult a doctor so that you can start your journey to quit smoking.
Teeth Care in San Diego
Fine Dentistry offers cosmetic dental treatments to get rid of smoking stains on teeth. To book your appointment, call or visit us today.
Schedule an Appointment 619-295-6500
