Tobacco and Your Oral Health

Smoking or using other tobacco products negatively affects your dental care in St. Charles. The tar in nicotine stains teeth causes bad breath and increases your risk for serious issues like periodontal disease, leukoplakia, and oral cancer.

Gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease, can cause swollen, tender, or bleeding gums. Leukoplakia leads to white, thick patches on the gums, the tongue, or the inside of the cheek.

Smoking cigarettes or using smokeless tobacco significantly increases your risk of developing oral cancer. Check out this video to learn more about the dangers of these habits and work closely with your dentist to maintain healthy teeth and gums.