Smoking hazards: Bad breath

by | Nov 14, 2011 | Dental Care, Dentists

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There is a clear connection between foul breath and smoking. People who smoke have a strong tobacco odor on their breath. Non-smokers will instantly recognize this odor, if a smoker is in their immediate vicinity. This odor also lingers onto the hair, clothes and skin of the smoker. There are also other factors that tie smoking to bad breath. Instead of undergoing bad breath therapy, it is easier just to quit the habit. Here is why.

The connection

Smoking inhibits the production of saliva. Now saliva is vital to destroying anaerobic bacteria, living at the back of the mouth and in the crevices between the teeth and the gums. These bacteria produce sulfur compounds as by products of their daily processes.

So this is how it all connects; smoking inhibits saliva; a decrease in saliva spells an increase in anaerobes which then produces sulfur compounds in the mouth. Sulfur equals bad breath.

The hazards

The chances of gum disease and tooth decay increases with smoking. Smokers possess more cavities than people who do mot smoke. An uncontrolled smoking habit causes the teeth to get detached from the gums. The gums then recede, leaving the roots exposed and spaces where bacteria can flourish. The roots of the teeth are not protected by enamel, hence once they get exposed, they are a lot more vulnerable to tooth decay.

Smoking alone does not cause dental problems and bad breath. Other tobacco indulgences such as cigars and pipe smoking also carry similar hazards. Smokeless tobacco has sugar as well as grit particles in it. The hazards of sugar on enamel is well known. Grit wears down teeth, and contributes to decay.

If you are a smoker, yellow stains and bad breath is not the only things you should worry about. Bad breath therapy can help you combat it, but the answer is undoubtedly to quit smoking.

Bad Breath

Bad Breath

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