Do you, or some you know, like to indulge in a cigar every once in a while? The expensive “luxury” is driving a new surge in an age-old danger to oral health.
Once a habit for older men, cigar smoking now appeals to the younger generation. Flavored cigars is also appealing to teens.
Unfortunately, just like cigarettes, cigar smoking comes with a price: Oral health problems.
How Cigars Can Wreck Your Smile
More than 75% of people diagnosed with oral cancer after age 50 use or have used tobacco. Regular cigar smokers also increase their risk for other serious oral health problems.
- Cigar smokers are 4 to 10 times more likely to die from cancers of the mouth, esophagus and larynx than non-smokers.
- They often have badly stained teeth and chronic bad breath.
- Smoking cigars triples their rate of developing moderate to severe gum disease.
- On average, cigar smokers have four missing teeth.
Cigars Have More Tobacco Than Cigarettes
While cigarette tobacco is wrapped in paper, cigar tobacco is wrapped in actual tobacco — a tobacco leaf. A large cigar can contain as much tobacco as a pack of cigarettes. Because nicotine in cigar smoke is absorbed through tissues lining the mouth, cigars can be addictive – even when the smoke is not inhaled.
In addition to cancer and gum disease, cigar smoking may increase the risk of heart disease, emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
Because they contain the same toxic and carcinogenic compounds as cigarettes, cigars can be very dangerous to your oral and overall health. When you quit smoking, your mouth and body will start to heal and you can lower your risk of cancer, heart disease and more.
The California Smokers Helpline called No Butts is FREE support through counseling, nicotine patches and gum, and other services to help you or those you love to quit any tobacco for good.
About THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®
THE SCIENCE OF SMILES® offers affordable cosmetic and laser dentistry and gentle, compassionate general dental care in Pasadena, CA. Our office is conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures, complete dental reconstruction and TMJ/Headache management. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover affordable up-to-date dentistry and a team who truly cares at THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®.
