PATIENT INFORMATION

'Smokers have worse Periodontal Gum Disease and lose teeth earlier!'

For many years it has been recognised that tobacco has harmful effects on your general health. In the mouth it is known that smoking is linked with white patches and oral cancer. Research over the past 20 years has also shown that smoking has a significant effect on the periodontal (gum) tissues.

Gum diseases are extremely common and affect more than 90% of us at some stage. However, smokers have significantly worse gum disease than non-smokers and lose their teeth earlier.

Studies have reported that smokers are 5-7 times more likely to suffer the effects of severe periodontal disease.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF GUM DISEASE?

They are variable but may include:
* Bleeding on tooth brushing
* Red swollen and possibly tender gums
* Persistent bad breath
* Gums that have pulled away from the teeth (pocketing)
* Receding gums (getting long in the tooth)
* Loose teeth or teeth that are changing position
* Pus or discharge around the gums
* A change in the way the teeth bite together

1) Severe gingivitis (reversible gum disease)

2) Smoking related gum disease.

3) Treated smoking related gum disease

4) Perfect oral health!

Numerous studies have shown that smokers:
* Have more severe gum disease than non-smokers
* Have deeper periodontal pockets and more loss of gum and bone support
* Have greater tooth loss and this tends to occur at a younger age
* Respond less well to all types of periodontal treatment
* Are more likely to suffer recurrent periodontal problems

Surprisingly, smoking can disguise the superficial signs and symptoms of active gum inflammation such as bleeding and so smokers may be unaware of a problem.

QUIT TOBACCO SMOKING

Current research indicates that ex-smokers tend to have gum health intermediate between 'never smokers' and 'current smokers'. However, a very important finding is that former smokers can respond as well to periodontal treatment as non-smokers. Within a few months of quitting smoking the appearance and health of the gums improve with treatment. Quitting smoking tobacco is therefore beneficial.

Quitting smoking is not easy but we recognise that it is a very important part of periodontal health. We would like to encourage you to stop smoking as part of your periodontal treatment. Zyban™ and Nicotine replacement therapies such as skin patches, chewing gum, inhalators, tablets and nasal sprays have been shown to double the chances of success and are therefore worth considering. A discussion with your GP can be helpful and the National Quitline can be contacted for advice on 0800 169 0 169.

http://www.gosmokefree.co.uk

CONCLUSIONS

There are many good reasons to quit smoking. Not only can your general health improve but it will also have a large impact on improving your oral health. A more favourable response to any periodontal treatment can be expected and recurrence of your periodontal problems less likely to occur.

THE BRITISH SOCIETY OF PERIODONTOLOGY

B.S.P. is a registered charity dedicated to promote gum health awareness for the benefit of the public. It also plays a significant part in educating dentists and hygienists. They advise regular dental check-ups including gum screening, good oral hygiene and quitting smoking in the fight against gum disease. Dr Amanda Biddle is a past member of Council and Press Officer for the B.S.P. For more information on periodontal disease and its treatment see the website http://www.bsperio.org.uk