It should not come as a surprise to you that smoking is harmful to one’s oral health. Apart from the extensive damage it does to your lungs and heart, it also has some negative side effects on your mouth. You might have given up smoking long ago, but there is a chance you are still experiencing its side effects, as nicotine can cause various dental problems. 

In some cases, it leads to deadly cancer and claims thousands of lives every year in the United States. You can take care of your oral health while being an active smoker in numerous ways. If you are concerned about any other dental problems that you or your family members might have, you can contact a family dentist in Greenbelt.

Tips for oral care for smokers

• Brush your teeth properly and regularly

This goes without saying, but brushing your teeth correctly is important. Use mouthwash, floss your teeth, and drink lots of water. You need a good quality toothbrush whose bristles can reach every corner of your mouth. If you do not maintain proper oral hygiene, you are at risk of having stained teeth, bad breath, or gum disease.

• Do not consume foods and drinks that stain your teeth.

As mentioned earlier, you are already at risk of having stained teeth because of your smoking. So, it is best to prevent beverages like coffee that can cause discoloration of your teeth. Instead, consume foods that have high fiber and calcium content. You can take calcium supplements or drink milk for stronger teeth.

• Visit your dentist regularly.

No matter how sure you are of your dental hygiene, you should always visit your dentist regularly for routine checkups. Routine cleanups may rid your mouth of any bacteria, plaque, or tartar that may have accumulated in between your teeth or gums. It erases the risk of getting gum disease.

• Make sure to clean your tongue.

Your tongue is a great breeding ground for bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria feed off of the plaque and tartar and release acids that can cause various oral diseases like halitosis (bad breath), periodontal disease, or in rare cases, oral cancer. Since you consume nicotine through smoking, the chances of getting these diseases are always high. Hence, use tongue cleaners and keep your tongue clean.

• Buy the right toothpaste.

Some kinds of toothpaste specifically wash off the stains caused by nicotine on your teeth. You must know how vital it is to have bright white teeth, as your smile depends on them. Hence, make sure to do your research before you buy toothpaste in the market.