Everybody knows that smoking produces an unattractive yellow stain on your teeth. Whether it’s cigarettes, pipes, cigars or — heaven forbid, chewing tobacco — nicotine is not your mouth’s best friend. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, smoking is the leading cause of the development and progression of periodontal disease.

So if you’re a smoker and you’re fond of your teeth, you might want to think about knocking off the ciggies. There. End of lecture. We’re not going to take your inventory. But if you want to know exactly why puffing a cigarette is bad for your teeth, feel free to read on.

Periodontal disease begins when “bad” bacteria migrates below the gum line into the root of your teeth.

X-ray of teeth showing evidence of Periodontal Disease

Starting out as gingivitis, periodontal disease can affect your physical body and your social life. By robbing your mouth of blood flow and depleting vital nutrients from your body, smoking supports all three major stages of gum disease:

• Calculus formation
• Development of deep pockets between teeth and gums
• Loss of bone and tissue supporting teeth

Many smokers admit they’re Continue Reading »