Changing our habits will lead to healthier teeth and gums.

When we are young, we have a tendency, perhaps, to think of ourselves as invulnerable and permanent. It is only as we get older that we start to realise that this is not true and that our bodies do not recover as quickly as they once did.

By this time though, many of our lifestyle choices have been determined by our younger years, and, often continue throughout our lives unless we make an active decision to change them.

Smoking

Generally speaking, few people actually take up smoking in their middle age. This is something that probably starts from peer pressure when younger, but, as we now know, nicotine is highly addictive and can make stopping smoking a very difficult thing to do.

As your local Bristol dentists, we may not be able to help you stop smoking but we can point out the dangers to your oral health should you continue.

Apart from having badly stained teeth through the tar in cigarettes, there are two other potential risks to your teeth and gums. The first, and most likely, of these is gum disease.

Gingivitis occurs through poor oral health care. This includes brushing and flossing of course, but other factors such as smoking can contribute to it as well.

Smoking will lead to a dry mouth which is exactly the environment the bacteria that can lead to gum disease love. Any infections in the oral area too are likely to heal more slowly and can cause problems such as a dental abscess.

Oral Cancers

At Beau Monde Dental Care, when we give you a check up, as well as looking for signs of dental decay and gum disease, we are also looking to detect any potential signs of oral cancer. These are significantly more likely in smokers than non smokers.

In the event that we detect any indication, we will refer you to your doctor who will be able to determine if this is the case or not.

Alcohol

Whilst the occasional social drink is acceptable, and may even be good for you according to some reports, it is widely accepted that heavier drinking is a problem.

As well as potential damage to your liver, like tobacco products, alcohol can affect your oral health too.

Once again, dry mouth is a likely occurrence with the attendant risk of potential gum disease.

Of course, with alcohol too comes an increase in the risk of damage to your teeth and mouth caused by accidents.

By changing these negative lifestyle habits and paying regular visits to see one of our Bristol dentists, your chances of having a healthy mouth will be increased.

To arrange a consultation, please call Beau Monde Dental Care on 0117 330 3495.