Quitting smoking is a significant achievement that will improve your short and long-term physical health. However, even if you are no longer a smoker, you may still be dealing with the side effects of the habit. Tooth discoloration, gum disease, and cavities are all common challenges that former smokers face. Luckily, you can reclaim your oral health and beautiful smile with transformative smile makeover procedures.
How Smoking Can Affect Your Smile
Smoking and using other tobacco products is one of the leading causes of preventable death in the United States and can increase the risk of many chronic diseases. Smoking can also have a significant negative impact on your mouth and teeth.
Teeth Discoloration
One of the most common side effects of smoking is the discoloration of teeth. Tar and nicotine from cigarettes can cause teeth to become yellow and stained, which can be difficult to reverse.
Gum Disease
In addition to stains and discoloration, smoking can also increase the risk of gum disease. Smoking can cause gums to become swollen and inflamed, making it difficult for the body to fight off bacteria. Swollen gums can lead to periodontal disease, an infection of the gums that can damage the underlying bone and lead to tooth loss.
Increased Risk of Cavities
Smokers may also find that they are more likely to develop cavities. Tar and nicotine from cigarettes can adhere to the teeth and make them more prone to decay. Saliva production can also be reduced in smokers, making it harder for the mouth to wash away plaque and bacteria naturally.
Improving Your Smile After Smoking With Cosmetic Dentistry
Smokers are often aware that their habit has caused extensive damage to their teeth but may not realize the variety of options available for a smile makeover after they stop smoking. A smile makeover is a combination of treatments designed to improve the appearance of your teeth, as well as your overall smile.
Here are some of the most popular options for a smile makeover after smoking:
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a popular option for a smile makeover after smoking. This procedure can help to reduce the discoloration and staining caused by smoking. Depending on the severity of the staining, professional teeth whitening treatments may be recommended to ensure the best results.
Veneers
Another procedure for a smile makeover is porcelain veneers. Veneers are thin shells bonded to the front of the teeth to improve their appearance. Dental veneers can be used to cover discoloration, chips, cracks, gaps, and other imperfections caused by smoking.
Crowns
Former smokers may also opt for dental crowns as part of their smile makeover. Crowns are full-coverage dental restorations used to improve the appearance and strength of the teeth. Crowns can help cover discoloration, chips, and other smoking damage.
Dental Implants
A fourth possible procedure in a post-smoking smile makeover is dental implants. Dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. They are a beneficial option for restoring your smile after smoking, as they look and feel like natural teeth.
Bonding
Lastly, you may include dental bonding in a smile makeover after smoking. Bonding is a procedure that repairs chips and other minor imperfections in the teeth and can restore the appearance of your teeth after smoking.
Improve Your Smile After Smoking With Smith Dentalworks
If you are a former smoker and want to improve the appearance of your smile, a smile makeover with Smith Dentalworks may be the right choice. Our excellent oral surgeons are well-versed in the above procedures and can help you decide which options are best for you. We strive to provide personalized care and one-on-one attention to every patient who visits our Oro Valley dental office.
