Secondhand Smoke and Periodontal Disease

Numerous studies have shown that smoking is closely associated with the prevalence or severity of periodontal disease. These forms of periodontal disease can result in bone loss around your teeth leading to subsequent tooth loss.  It also leads to gum recession exposing the softer roots of the teeth leading to increased tooth decay. In addition, chronic pain from inflamed and bleeding gums is often present as well.

Periodontal disease also significantly increases your risks for cardiovascular disease, hypertension and a host of other potentially deadly diseases. Therefore, your overall well-being is affected, not just your oral health. 

Studies have shown that the risk for severe periodontal disease was increased  by 29% among nonsmokers  exposed to secondhand smoke between 1-25 hours/week. For those exposed to 26 hours or greater/week the risk went up to twice as high! Smokers need to realize that they are not only affecting their own health but significantly affecting the health of the people around them as well.

For more information, you can contact Dr. Michael Krochak at

drk@nycsmilespa.com

NYC Smile Spa

30 E. 60th St., Rm 1201

New York, NY 10022

(212) 838-2900