Getting dentures is a major step toward restoring your smile, comfort, and confidence. However, continuing to smoke after receiving dentures can negatively impact how well they fit, function, and last. Quitting smoking at this time can significantly improve your oral health and help you get the best possible results from your dentures.
Smoking Slows Healing After Denture Placement
When you first receive dentures—especially immediate dentures placed after extractions—your gums and bone need time to heal. Smoking restricts blood flow and reduces oxygen levels in the tissues, which slows the healing process. This can increase discomfort, prolong soreness, and raise the risk of complications such as infections or dry socket after extractions. Quitting smoking allows your gums to heal more quickly and comfortably.
Smoking Increases the Risk of Gum and Bone Loss
Even with dentures, the health of your gums and jawbone is critical. Smoking accelerates bone loss in the jaw, which can cause dentures to become loose over time. Poorly fitting dentures can lead to sore spots, difficulty chewing, and frequent adjustments or relines. By quitting smoking, you help preserve the bone and gum tissue that support your dentures, improving their long-term fit and stability.
Tobacco Causes Denture Stains and Odors
Dentures are porous and can absorb stains and odors from tobacco smoke. Smoking often leads to yellow or brown discoloration that’s difficult to remove, even with daily cleaning. Persistent odors can also develop, affecting your confidence when speaking or smiling. Avoiding tobacco helps keep your dentures looking cleaner, brighter, and fresher.
Smoking Increases the Risk of Oral Infections
Smoking weakens your immune system and makes it harder for your body to fight off infections. Denture wearers are already at risk for conditions like denture stomatitis—a painful inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria or yeast. Smoking significantly increases this risk, leading to redness, irritation, and discomfort. Quitting reduces your chances of developing these painful oral infections.
Quitting Improves Overall Health and Comfort
Beyond oral health, quitting smoking improves your overall well-being, including better circulation, lung function, and sense of taste. Many denture wearers notice improved comfort and enjoyment of food after quitting. Your mouth feels healthier, and your dentures simply work better.
Quitting smoking when you get dentures isn’t just a lifestyle change; it’s an investment in your oral health and quality of life. By quitting, you support healing, protect your gums and bone, keep your dentures cleaner, and reduce your risk of infection. Your smile and your health will thank you.
About the Author
Dr. Jennifer Pham has been practicing dentistry for more than 10 years. She completed her Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2010 at the Temple University School of Dentistry. After graduating, Dr. Pham returned to her hometown and has been working in Northern Virginia for the past decade. She’s advanced her education through continuing education courses at renowned institutions including the Las Vegas Institute of Neuromuscular and Restorative Dentistry. If you’re in the market for dentures, we’d be proud to serve your needs and restore your smile. Schedule an appointment online or call (703) 666-3867.