As well as general health, smoking harms oral health in many ways. Some effects, such as staining, are visible, while others, such as gum disease, can progress silently for years.
Discolouration and staining
Tar and nicotine in tobacco smoke stick to the tooth surface and form yellow-brown stains. Some of these stains can be removed by professional cleaning, but they come back as long as smoking continues. Results after teeth whitening may also last less long in smokers.
Bad breath and dry mouth
Smoking reduces saliva flow. Less saliva leads both to bad breath and to a higher risk of decay.
Gum disease
Smoking is one of the most important risk factors for gum disease. Because it reduces blood flow in the gums, it can mask warning signs such as bleeding, so the disease can progress unnoticed. The result may be gum recession, bone loss and loose teeth.
Healing and treatment success
- Healing after extraction may be delayed and the risk of complications such as dry socket increases.
- The integration of implants with bone may be affected, and problems around implants may be more common in the long term.
- The response to gum treatment may be reduced.
Smoking during orthodontic treatment
Smoking stains clear aligners and attachments, and smoking with aligners in is not recommended. Because it harms gum health, it can also affect the course of orthodontic treatment. For details, see our clear aligner wear guide.
Risk of oral cancer
Smoking is among the most important risk factors for oral cancer; the risk is even higher when combined with alcohol. If you notice a sore lasting more than two weeks, white or red patches, hardness or swelling in the mouth, have it assessed.
Taste and smell
Smoking can dull the senses of taste and smell. After quitting, these senses can recover over time.
How quitting helps oral health
Quitting smoking brings benefits at any age. Blood flow in the gums improves, the risk of gum disease progressing decreases and the response to treatment becomes stronger. In Turkey, the Ministry of Health's ALO 171 quit-smoking advice line offers support.
