Simple Facts on Gum Disease and Smoking

August 11, 2017

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a type of infection considered to be opportunistic by nature. This is the result of the interaction between a host’s (patient)ability to fight infection and bacteria in dental plaque. The ability of the host to fight infection can also be affected by some factors including genetics, environment and acquired risk factors.

One of the most common acquired risk factors is smoking tobacco. Various studies have proven that smoking has a direct link to certain diseases such as, pneumonia, cardiovascular disease, cancer and the list goes on and on and on.

In comparison to a non-smoker, a patient who smokes has a 2.5-3.5 % chance of developing gum disease. According to recent clinical studies, 40% of patients with gum disease may be attributed to smoking. Evidence shows that loss of supporting structures of the teeth (gums and jaw bone) tend to be greater in smokers, therefore resulting in increased risk of tooth mobility and tooth loss.

So how does smoking increase the severity of gum disease?

Tobacco smoke contains carbon monoxide which has a direct impact on blood oxygen in healthy gums. This type of oral environment encourages the growth of anaerobic bacteria causing gum disease. As the anaerobic bacteria presence increases, the severity of gum disease also increases. Nicotine in tobacco smoke is known to be vasoconstrictive (stops bleeding via compression of blood vessels). This vasoconstrictive effect prevents blood from flowing around the gums. As a result, cells that fight bacteria-causing gum disease cannot effectively reach the site of infection.

The most important thing to remember is that smoking alters how our body responds tofight infection in the supporting tissues (gums and jaw bone) of our teeth. Prevention of gum disease is the overall key.

If you have any further concerns about the effects of smoking, gum disease and its potential detrimental effect on your overall oral health and quality of life, our dentists, Dr. Rouel Vergara and Dr. Ben Barrera will be happy to discuss this with you.

< Older Post

 Newer Post >
Patient Getting a Check up In Dental Clinic

The Difference Between General Dentistry & Cosmetic Dentistry

By Dr Anthony Hua • October 10, 2025
Discover the difference between general and cosmetic dentistry. Learn how a Burleigh dentist can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile today.
A Dentist is Talking to a Patient in a Dental Office — New Leaf Dentists in Erina, NSW

Enhance Your Appearance with Dental Veneers: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Pamela Vergara • January 9, 2025
Discover the potential benefits of investing in dental veneers and our unique step by step process with the latest dental technology and materials.
A Dentist is Talking to a Patient in a Dental Office — New Leaf Dentists in Erina, NSW

5 Warning Signs Of Gum Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore

By Alex Benigno • November 13, 2024
Gum disease can impact sleep quality and overall health. Discover how dental treatments can help manage symptoms and improve wellness. Learn more.
A Lunch Box Filled With Sandwiches, Fruits and Vegetables — New Leaf Dentists in Erina, NSW

4 Healthy Eating Habits for Stronger Teeth and Gums

By Pamela Vergara • October 22, 2024
This blog post delves into how certain eating habits can significantly enhance oral health. Read on to learn more about us!
A Woman is Sleeping in a Bed With an Oxygen Mask on Her Face — New Leaf Dentists in Erina, NSW

Sleep Apnoea: How Your Dentist Can Help

By Pamela Vergara • July 8, 2024
Learn how your dentist can help manage sleep apnea and improve your quality of life. Read our blog for expert insights and solutions today.
Two Women Are Holding Toothbrushes and Teeth Models — New Leaf Dentists in Erina, NSW

Oral Health Education in Preschools on the Central Coast

By Pamela Vergara • March 17, 2023
It's never too early to start teaching children about good dental hygiene. We make regular visits to preschools to teach the importance of good oral health.
A Little Boy is Sitting in a Dental Chair Talking to Two Women — New Leaf Dentists in Erina, NSW

BACK TO SCHOOL 2023

By Pamela Vergara • February 3, 2023
Welcome To 2023! If You're Mapping Out Your Year, Don't Forget To Schedule In Your Family's Dental Check-ups & Clean. Call Us On 4367-6222 To Book!
A Computer Generated Image of a Mouth With Wisdom Teeth — New Leaf Dentists in Erina, NSW

What to Do When Your Wisdom Teeth Start Coming Through

By Pamela Vergara • August 3, 2022
Signs Your Wisdom Teeth May Be Erupting: An Itchy Sensation in the Gums, White Specks Behind the Second Molars, Significant Discomfort at the Back of the Jaw.
A Woman in a White Sweater is Smiling With Her Arms Crossed — New Leaf Dentists in Erina, NSW

How To Keep Your Teeth White

By Pamela Vergara • June 13, 2022
Clean healthy tooth & bright smile can do wonders for your confidence. At New Leaf Dentists, we love nothing more than helping patients to love their smiles!
A Dentist is Talking to a Patient in a Dental Chair — New Leaf Dentists in Erina, NSW

Are Root Canal Treatments Painful?

By Pamela Vergara • August 5, 2021
It's a common misconception that root canal treatments are painful. However, when there is pain, it's typically a result of the inflammation of the pulp.
Show More