Have you heard of World No Tobacco Day (WNTD)? It’s observed every year worldwide to promote a 24-hour period of abstinence from all forms of tobacco use and consumption. More importantly, it’s intended to draw attention to the widespread prevalence of tobacco use and its negative health effects. The office of Bobby J. Carmen, DDS especially encourages recognition for this day of awareness because tobacco use poses a huge threat to patient’s oral health. Even if you’re not a direct smoker or tobacco user, there are countless people that are affected by second-hand smoke. If you or someone you know are currently tobacco users, your Norman dentist recommends sharing this article to spread awareness and break the deadly cycle of tobacco use.
The Truth About Tobacco
We all know that tobacco use is bad for us, but to what extent? Why do so many people continue to use it knowing that it negatively impacts the quality of their lives? Maybe they don’t know the true statistics that they are choosing to be a part of by being active users. Here are some disturbing facts that may change your mind about buying your next pack of cigarettes.
- Tobacco causes nearly 6 million deaths a year worldwide.
- 600,000 deaths are those of non-smokers from second-hand smoke.
- Tobacco users are two-thirds more likely to develop oral cancer than other patients.
- Tobacco users that chew are a third more likely to develop oral cancer.
Tobacco Use Negatively Affects Oral Health
It may be true that you have been aware of the statistics and facts above, but many don’t know how tobacco affects their oral health specifically.
- More than half of smoking adults have gum disease.
- Smokers are twice as likely to lose their teeth compared to non-smokers.
- When you try to treat your gum disease, smoking reduces the effect of therapeutic treatments.
- Tobacco use reduces the body’s ability to fight infection, including the mouth and gums.
- Cigars, chewing tobacco, and unprocessed tobacco leaves that are used for cigar wrappers contain small pieces of abrasive materials that are harmful to your teeth and wear them down overtime.
Dental Care for Tobacco Users
Although our first suggestion is to always quit using tobacco altogether and encourage those around you to stop as well, some patients choose to do otherwise. That doesn’t mean they don’t deserve to receive quality dental care. In fact, they need it more than ever. If you or a family member is a tobacco user, you should be visiting our office normally for these reasons.
- You’ll receive thorough dental exams that explore the inner and outer workings of your oral structures with digital x-rays.
- We check for oral cancer with our advanced Velscope dental technology in its earliest stages.
- You’ll have your teeth professionally cleaned to reduce those heightened chances of developing serious dental issues from tobacco use.
- If you have gum disease or another oral health problem, you can receive regular treatments to regulate them.
Visit the Office of Bobby J. Carmen, DDS
Whether you’re a regular tobacco user or not, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly in order to stay on top of your oral health. It’s especially important if you choose to continue to use tobacco products though. We encourage you visiting our office more than twice a year in fact. If it’s been a while since your last dental appointment, contact our office to schedule your next one today!