Dentures are the tried-and-true solution for tooth loss because they simultaneously restore your smile’s functionality and appearance. However, you must care for them properly in order to continue making the most of their many benefits.
Some patients indulge in certain habits that can harm their prosthetics as well as their oral health, like smoking. If you regularly indulge in vapes or cigarettes, continue reading to learn 3 great reasons to quit before getting dentures!
Consideration #1: It Suppresses Immunity
Did you know that tobacco use is the number one leading cause of oral cancer? This is because they contain a chemical called nicotine, which is highly addictive and negatively affects your health by suppressing your immune system. It impairs the functionality of white blood cells, including T cells, essential for fighting off infections.
It also inhibits your body’s ability to create new immunity cells to respond to threats in your body, which means you’re more vulnerable to diseases, including periodontal problems. Bacteria can form a layer of plaque on your dentures that can cause gum disease if not cleaned consistently, which can impact your jawbone if left unaddressed.
Consideration #2: It Speeds Up Bone Loss
Many patients are surprised to learn that their jaw loses density when teeth go missing. The roots of your teeth stimulate new bone growth every time you bite down to keep your mandible active and healthy. When one is lost, you can potentially lose up to 25% of the bone mass beneath it within the first year.
Unfortunately, the nicotine in tobacco products slows the production of bone-forming cells (called osteoblasts). At the same time, it decreases your body’s ability to absorb calcium from your diet, which is essential for building healthy teeth and bones. Your facial shape can shift without sufficient jawbone density, leading to ill-fitting dentures.
Consideration #3: It Stains
One of the first things people notice about you is the quality of your smile, and if yours is more yellow or brown than white, you aren’t likely to make a good impression. You might even develop anxiety or avoid social interactions if you’re overly afraid of how others might perceive you. Thankfully, your prosthetics are made with lifelike materials that can be customized to look just like the teeth that went missing to boost your confidence in the way you look.
However, cigarettes contain nicotine and tar that can stain your grin a much darker shade. If you assume dentures are immune, think again! The teeth are made of durable porcelain or resin that can become discolored with frequent or repeated exposure to pigmented particles like the ones found in tobacco products.
Quitting your smoking habit can help you preserve your restoration in the long run!
About the Practice
At Midtown Family Dentistry of Dallas, you and your family benefit from a team of dentists who are passionate about helping you build and maintain your healthiest, most beautiful smile. They provide a full array of top-tier services to meet all your needs conveniently under one roof, including dentures. First, they get to know your unique dental goals and concerns. Then, they combine a compassionate approach and state-of-the-art equipment to devise personalized treatment plans to address them. If your dentures are dark or damaged, they are happy to provide a professional cleaning or replace them if needed. You can request an appointment on the website or call (469) 529-6016.