Smoking Increase Your Risk For Gum Infections

Smoking, a known cause of cancer and lung disease, is considered one of the most modifiable risk factors for periodontal disease. An average smoker is four times more likely to develop periodontal disease compared to non-smokers. It has also been demonstrated that the severity of periodontal disease is directly related to both the duration and amount an individual has smoked. Smoking not only impacts the development of periodontal disease, but also the response to periodontal treatment. Most smokers respond less favorably to non-surgical and surgical management of periodontal disease. If you are a smoker it would be wise to stop smoking or try cutting down, cigarette smoke contains so many toxins and is really bad for the gums and actually hinders the healing process in people with gum infections.