Effects of Smoking and Alcohol on Teeth

If you smoke, drink a lot of alcohol, or do recreational drugs, you could be putting your mouth and teeth at risk, according to our North Hollywood dentist.

Some of the effects of smoking, alcohol, or drugs can include cancer, tooth staining, dry mouth, bad breath, tooth loss, tooth decay, sensitivity, and cracked or broken teeth. As you can see, all of these things can negatively affect your teeth and mouth.How can you minimize the damage? First, you should certainly quit smoking. If this is not an option, even reducing the number of cigarettes you smoke or how much you drink can help. You should also be sure that you are brushing your teeth at least two times a day, reduce sweets, and drink more water over soda or juice.

Other things that you can do is to chew sugar-free gum, see our dentist if you develop sores or white patches on your tongue or lips, and make sure to rinse your mouth with water after eating sugar or sweet food or drinks. Heavy alcohol use and any type of tobacco use are major risk factors of oral cancer. By eliminating these risk factors, you can significantly lower your risk of oral cancer.

Do you need help? Our team can certainly work with you to help eliminate these things from your life. If you believe that you are at risk for oral cancer and have not had success on your own reducing your drug, alcohol, or tobacco intake, please let us know. We can offer solutions that can put you on a healthier path.