Smoking puts a person at an increased risk for gum disease or periodontal disease. In the past, most dental professionals could tell you that their patients that smoked did not heal as well as nonsmokers after cleanings, after fillings and crowns, and after tooth extractions and implant placement. The effects of smoking are even seen in younger smokers as their gums shows a more rapid progression of periodontal disease, making their mouth look older than it really was. A smoker's mouth shows not only signs of permanent tooth stain that we all note with smokers, but there is thickening of the gum, with increased areas of recession, where the gum tissue has pulled away from the teeth. The tongue looks darkened and coated in most cases.
Teeth also show increased wear on their biting surfaces.
The incidence of halitosis or bad breath is increased since the mouth is drier with smoking. The increased risk of periodontal disease was especially true if the patient also has diabetes, since these patients already have trouble with infections and healing. If you need some assistance, contact your dental or medical professional for help. They have new ways to stop smoking to share with you. Unlike some cancers, mouth cancer can be successfully treated if caught early.