Doctor warns: Smoking worsens gum inflammation and threatens teeth
Dr. Ruba Al-Mallah, a specialist in oral diseases and periodontal surgery, confirmed in recent statements to Al-Youm newspaper that gingivitis is one of the most common oral diseases worldwide. She explained that this condition represents the early stage of periodontal disease, warning that unhealthy daily habits, especially smoking, play a disastrous role in exacerbating this silent disease, which can lead to complete tooth loss if not addressed promptly.
The evolution of medical understanding of oral diseases and their global impact
Historically, oral and dental problems were viewed as simple, localized pains. However, with advancements in medical research over the past decades, scientists have demonstrated that oral health is a reflection of overall health. The World Health Organization (WHO) and regional and local health authorities have recognized that oral diseases pose a significant health and economic burden. Neglecting to treat periodontitis not only impacts an individual's quality of life but also increases healthcare costs at the national level, especially given the link between advanced periodontal disease and serious systemic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. This interconnectedness makes raising awareness about the dangers of harmful habits an urgent public health priority.
Dr. Al-Mallah explained that this inflammation is mostly caused by the accumulation of plaque and bacteria around the teeth. This continuous buildup irritates the gum tissue, causing redness and bleeding. She added that the inflammation, medically known as gingivitis, affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. If left untreated, it can develop into a more serious condition called periodontitis, a severe disease that causes gum recession and erosion of the bone supporting the teeth, ultimately leading to loose teeth and tooth loss.
The most important symptoms of infection to watch out for
The specialist explained that there are a number of warning signs that indicate a problem, most notably redness and abnormal swelling of the gums. Bleeding when brushing or flossing is also a strong indicator. Furthermore, the patient often suffers from persistent bad breath and increased sensitivity or discomfort in the gum area.
How does smoking increase the risk of gingivitis?
Dr. Ruba warned of the devastating effects of smoking on oral health, emphasizing that it is one of the most dangerous factors that increase the likelihood of developing gum and accelerate its progression. She pointed to an important scientific fact: the nicotine in tobacco causes the blood vessels in the gums to constrict. This constriction leads to a significant decrease in blood and oxygen supply to the gum tissues, greatly reducing their natural ability to resist infection and inflammation.
Furthermore, smoking negatively impacts the immune system, reducing the efficiency of white blood cells responsible for fighting bacteria. This weakened immune system makes smokers more susceptible to infections compared to non-smokers. Ironically, smokers may not show obvious signs of bleeding due to vasoconstriction, delaying disease detection and allowing it to progress silently. Smoking also alters the composition of saliva and increases pigmentation, creating an ideal environment for plaque and tartar buildup.
Tooth loss and the importance of quitting smoking
Regarding the severity of smoking, Al-Mallah explained that an increase in the number of cigarettes consumed daily is associated with increased inflammation. Prolonged smoking also raises the likelihood of tooth loss. Furthermore, smokers respond less effectively to dental treatments, making disease management more difficult.
She pointed out that quitting smoking significantly contributes to improving gum health, as it helps restore normal blood circulation, increases the effectiveness of medical treatments, and reduces the risk of tooth loss as the immune response gradually returns to normal.
Prevention methods and daily care
The doctor concluded by emphasizing the importance of prevention as the first line of defense. This includes brushing teeth twice daily with toothpaste, using dental floss to remove food particles, and visiting the dentist every six months for checkups and tartar removal. She stressed that the dangers of smoking are not limited to the lungs and heart, but extend directly and seriously to oral health, and that quitting is a fundamental step in maintaining a healthy smile.
