Smoking & Dental Treatment Brampton

Dr. Sonia Sharma

Recently Ontario Dental Association and its member dentists campaigned for a mandatory mouth examination to diagnose oral cancer. The main objective of this campaign was to make patients aware of any lesion or tissue in their mouth that may be disbelieving. Dentists were urged by the association to do a detailed examination and advise patients against smoking. Thorough public awareness programs, smokers were also guided to see the dentist so that an examination may be conducted. As in any other form of cancer, early diagnosis is the key for survival.

We are all well aware of the profound effect of smoking on the oral tissues and periodontal health. As health care professionals, it is our responsibility to advise our patients of the harmful effects of tobacco and urge them to quit. I have read about many gratified patients who actually owe their lives to their dentists due to an early diagnosis and treatment of their oral cancer.

Suspicious tissue in the mouth that appears pre-cancerous or malignant is always a priority in oral examinations. A sore on the oral soft or hard tissue is of greater concern on a smoker. The evaluation would consider it dangerous until demonstrated otherwise. One must understand that oral cancers (cancer of the mouth) may be aggressive and quickly transform, risking mortality, if not detected early.

Development of dental decay and gum disease, unsightly stains, and offensive breath are characteristic of tobacco usage. The senses of smell and taste are adversely affected. Tobacco and its by-products have a direct, intense effect on oral tissue, keeping it in a constant state of tenderness. The effects of cigarette and cigar smoke or smokeless tobacco is synonymous to keeping gas soaked rags in an area of potential fire. It is a preventable tragedy inviting disaster. This has been clearly demonstrated on clinical and physiological levels. Higher mortality rates have long been established in smokers and those who use smokeless tobacco.

Dental procedures done by the dentist on smokers also result in slower healing. This makes the dental treatment particularly challenging. Important consideration is given to treatment planning before the dental procedure is undertaken.  Consideration of appropriate cosmetic dental treatment plans and the predictability of their success depends upon the history of tobacco usage. Diets, eating disorders, even excessive gum chewing often exhibit interplay with tobacco habits. These factors may have an influence on dental health and may impact issues such as tooth erosion (bulimia) or premature wear of the biting surfaces due to grinding or gnashing of the teeth (bruxism). The substitution of oral habits and addictions for one another is not uncommon.

The “good news” is that the termination of smoking provides immediate, interim, and long-term health benefits. The best time to quit is right now. Your dentist can actually assist you in quitting this awful habit. Simply ask.

Please remember that the information is provided as general information. It is NOT intended to replace professional care. Since every patient and every case may vary, consult your physician or dentist for advice on your particular situation.

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