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Santa Monica CA Dentist | Tobacco & Your Teeth: The Risks of Chewing and Smoking

Chewing and smoking tobacco are known to cause severe health problems, particularly in the lungs. But the risks to your mouth and teeth can be just as extensive and alarming. If you use tobacco, stop. Here’s what tobacco can do to your oral health.
Santa Monica CA Dentist | Tobacco & Your Teeth: The Risks of Chewing and Smoking
Chewing Tobacco
According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), tobacco chewers increase their risk of developing gum and cheek cancers by 50 times. Tobacco dissolves the gums which leads to sensitivity from exposed roots. This also makes for an ideal location for bacteria to grow, leading to decay. If you are chewing tobacco, stop, and ask our experienced oral health team about what you can do to keep your mouth healthy.

Smoking
According to a report by the AGD, smoking one pack a day can lead to the loss of two teeth each decade of your life. Smoking increases your odds of losing teeth. Cigarettes and cigars are both damaging to your oral health. Smoking can cause staining as well, leading to an unattractive smile.

Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can develop in several places in your mouth including on your tongue, lips, mouth floor, and gums. Those over 50, are at an increased risk of developing oral cancer, as are men. However, Oral cancer has been on the rise, especially for people under 30 according to the AGD. Schedule an appointment with us to receive a thorough oral health examination, and ask us about an oral cancer screening, particularly if you are a tobacco user. Oral cancer screenings are often very quick as our dentist checks your mouth, teeth, and cheeks for signs of irregularities. If caught early, oral cancer can be treated.

If you are a tobacco user, we strongly advise you to quit. You can work with our professional dental team as well as your doctor to overcome tobacco use. Everyone should be receiving regular oral health examinations, but if you are a tobacco user, you need to be especially vigilant in doing so. Schedule a visit to our office so that we can work with you to identify any potential issues.

For more tips on keeping your mouth healthy or to schedule your next visit to our Santa Monica dentist, please contact Drake Dental of Santa Monica.

Drake Dental of Santa Monica
Phone: (310) 451-5348
1243 Seventh St., Suite A
Santa Monica, CA 90401

Visit Our Santa Monica Dental Office

Drake Dental

1243 Seventh St. Suite A
Santa Monica, CA 90401

(310) 451-5348
Infodrakedental@gmail.com

Providing Dental Care For the Communities of:

Santa Monica
Venice
Marina Del Rey
Pacific Palisades
All of West Los Angeles

Office Hours:

Monday - Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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  • America Dental Association

Santa Monica Family Dentist

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“Dr. Drake is AWESOME! He thoroughly explained the entire procedure and made me feel very comfortable and relaxed. His office staff is friendly and very helpful, as well.”

Lori H. Santa Monica, CA Dental Patient

Dr. Drake is so awesome! I was terrified of the dentist & he made me feel so comfortable. He truly has your best interest at heart & will recommend what’s best. Plus, each and every person in the office has been so nice & pleasant! I would definitely recommend!

Michelle K.

Dentist in santa monica, ca

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