Face
Dentistry
…There’s usually stained teeth and gum disease. Patients are often surprised that a dentist can tell that they smoke by looking in their mouths.
Most people are now aware that smoking is bad for their health. The graphic images on cigarette packs these days serve as a constant reminder. Many, however, still don’t realise the damage that smoking does to their mouth, gums and teeth.
On the cosmetic front, smoking contributes to tooth discolouration. The tar and nicotine found in cigarettes can stain the enamel of teeth, creating a yellowish or brownish appearance. This discolouration is often stubborn and difficult to remove through regular brushing or dental cleanings. Smoking can also lead to bad breath, as it dries out the mouth and promotes the growth of bacteria that cause foul odours.
More seriously, smoking can also result in gum disease. Smokers are more likely to produce bacterial plaque which leads to the condition. The gums are affected because smoking causes a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream, so the infected gums don’t heal. Gum disease progresses quicker in smokers than in non-smokers. And gum disease is still the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.
More serious still is the fact that oral cancer is caused by tobacco. The chemicals in tobacco smoke, such as benzene and formaldehyde, are carcinogenic and can damage the DNA of cells in the oral cavity.
Nearly 1,900 people die from oral cancer each year in England and rates are increasing, especially among younger people.
And what about vaping? Smoking e-cigarettes may seem less harmful than smoking regular cigarettes. Yet this may not be the case for the health of your mouth.
When you vape, you inhale e-liquids which, even when labelled ‘nicotine-free’, can contain harmful substances, although in low levels. These include:
The risk of vaping devices causing problems in your mouth is much higher if they contain nicotine.
While vaping is endorsed by the NHS, it is only on the grounds of being a temporary support aid to quitting smoking and staying quit. The long-term effects of vaping are not known. Yet there is some evidence that vaping can cause inflammation in the mouth, which can lead to gum disease and other oral health problems. Temporary loss of taste may happen in some people too (also called vape tongue).
So, with new year resolutions on the horizon, is it time to think about quitting the habit? You don’t have to go cold turkey. Reducing the number of cigarettes you smoke to start off with will help. And your dental team are ready to assist you. We often work with local smoking cessation teams, so advice and support are always at hand. Here’s to a healthy and happy 2024!
Laurie came to Evolve because she was unhappy with gaps between her teeth.
In this video, she shares her experience of having braces at the practice and how this has helped improve both the appearance of her smile and how her teeth meet together.
Teeth straightening treatment can address concerns such as spacing, crowding and bite issues, while also supporting long-term oral health.
If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth, a consultation at our practice can help you understand the options available.
#Braces #SmileJourney #Portishead #EvolveDentistry #Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #straighterteetheveryday #straighterteeth #newpatients #naturalteeth #healthysmiles #smilemakeovers #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #braces #adultbraces #adultbracesuk #gapsinteeth
Why do people grind their teeth?
In this video, Maggie explains some of the most common reasons people grind their teeth, particularly during sleep.
Grinding can be linked to things like stress, the alignment of your teeth or certain sleep issues. Over time it can lead to problems such as worn enamel, jaw pain and headaches.
If tooth grinding is causing problems, a custom dental guard may sometimes be recommended to help protect your teeth while you sleep.
Watch Maggie explain what to look out for and when it may be worth getting things checked.
#TeethGrinding #OralHealth #HealthySmile #PortisheadDentist
Clenching, headaches, pain when chewing… these can all be signs of TMJ problems.
In this video, Yasmin explains some of the common symptoms people experience and how treatments using neurotoxins can help relax the muscles around the jaw.
For some patients, this can reduce tension, relieve discomfort and improve day-to-day symptoms.
If you’ve been experiencing jaw pain or tension, it may be worth having a conversation about your options.
Book a consultation with our team at Evolve Face to learn more.
#TMJ #JawPain #FacialAesthetics #EvolveFace #Portishead
We are currently accepting new patients at Evolve.
If you’re looking for modern dental care in a friendly, patient-focused practice, we would love to welcome you.
Our team provides a wide range of dental treatments in a relaxed environment, with a focus on long-term oral health and natural-looking results. We’re proud to be a multi award-winning practice, and everything we do is centred around putting patients first.
We also offer finance options to help make treatment more manageable.
If you’ve been thinking about joining a new dental practice, now is a great time to get started.
📍 Evolve Dentistry, Portishead
📞 Contact our reception team on 01275 842550
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #newpatients #acceptingnewpatients #healthysmiles #healthysmile #naturalteeth #portishead #portisheadmarina #nailsea #clevedon #dentist
🪥 Smile hack: timing your tooth brushing
Did you know that brushing your teeth straight after eating isn’t always the best idea?
In this quick video, Maggie explains why it’s better to wait a little while before brushing. After eating, especially acidic foods and drinks, the enamel on your teeth can be temporarily softened. Brushing too soon can actually cause more wear.
Waiting around 30 minutes gives your saliva time to neutralise the acids and protect your teeth.
Watch Maggie’s smile hack to learn the simple change that can help keep your teeth healthier.
#SmileHack #DentalTips #OralHealth #HealthySmile #Portishead
What exactly is a dental crown?
In this video, Carol explains how crowns help restore and protect teeth that have been weakened by cracks, root canal treatment or large fillings.
A crown acts like a protective cap, binding the tooth together and giving it the strength it needs for everyday biting and chewing.
Watch the video to learn when a crown may be recommended and how it helps protect your smile.
#DentalCrowns #OralHealth #HealthySmile #PortisheadDentist
Did you know that chewing sugar free gum after eating can actually help protect your teeth? 🍬➡️🦷
In this video, Carol explains why dentists often recommend sugar free gum after meals. Chewing gum stimulates saliva, which helps wash away food particles and neutralise acids that can lead to tooth decay.
It’s not a replacement for brushing, but it can be a helpful extra habit when you’re out and about and can’t brush your teeth straight away.
#OralHealth #DentalTips #HealthySmile #Portishead
