Everybody wants that Hollywood smile; perfectly white teeth
, healthy gums and a winning set of chompers. Isn't life great when you don't have to worry about your teeth. Who dreads going to the dentist when they know a lot of work has to be done? I know I do. Well, smoking can have tremendous affects on periodontal health. Oral lesions can quickly turn cancerous if not detected early. Oral cancer is a growing concern for many dental professionals and has become a priority for the American Academy of Periodontology. Smoking also worsens tooth decay and periodontal disease, as well as, causes stains and offensive breath. Treatment plans that involve periodontal surgery are exacerbated by the slow healing times found in smokers. Luckily, smoking and other tobacco cessation results in immediate oral health benefits, such as reduction in oral cancer rates and periodontal disease.