We already knew that tobacco (just like tea or coffee) has the effect of yellow tooth enamel. But what we didn’t know, until British researchers looked at the teeth of 23,000 smokers and non-smokers, was that tobacco also has consequences for oral health. On average, heavy smokers (who smoke 15 or more cigarettes a day) are two to three times more likely to lose their teeth compared to non-smokers, their study published in the Journal of Dental Research estimates.
The lead author of this study, Professor Thomas Dietrich, from the University of Birmingham explains: “When teeth are lost it is often due to cavities or chronic periodontitis (gum disease). However, we know that periodontitis is a major risk in smokers because cigarettes physically and chemically attack the gums. So it makes sense that the more they smoke, the more teeth they lose.”
28 teeth in non-smokers, 25 in smokers
The conclusions of his study show that before the age of 50, a man who has never smoked retains an average of 28 teeth (an adult normally has 32), compared to 25 for a heavy smoker. Beyond the age of 60, the difference is even more marked, with 22 teeth for non-smokers against only 7 for heavy smokers.
“The good news is that quitting smoking reduces the risk quite quickly,” adds the doctor. The latter also recalls that tobacco is also responsible for many cases of throat cancer. and language. If you smoke, watch out for any sore spots in your mouth or throat that won’t heal in two weeks. Also, if you have difficulty swallowing, see your doctor.
Read also :
Infographic: good reasons to go to the dentist
The 6 worst enemies of your white teeth
In good health ? To find out, stick out your tongue
