Do you need another reason to stop smoking? According to recent studies, quitting might just save you from undergoing root canal treatment. Cigarette smokers are nearly twice as likely to need root canal treatment as non-smokers. And the risk of a smoker needing root canal treatment increased with more years of smoking and decreased with length of abstinence.
It is never fun to hear the words “root canal” and neither is the actual procedure. So from Lakewood Endodontics, here are more information on the link between cigarette smoking and root canal treatments you ought to know.
Vulnerability: Male vs. Female Smokers
Society has long brood over the differences between men and women. How the sexes are dissimilar will always be hotly debated, but one thing is for sure; men and women are distinctly different when it comes to dental health.
A survey revealed that men of all ages are more likely than women to develop cavities, periodontal disease and oral cancer. Smoking puts men at twice the risk over women; hence smoking also doubles the need for root canals in men.
So does that mean women are in the clear? Not really. Historically, women haven’t smoked as long or as much per day as men but the risk associated with smoking and root canals still applies.
Time Matters
If you recently started smoking, you may be at lower risk for root canals—but don’t let that fool you into thinking you are safe. The likelihood that a rookie will need a root canal is still 20% greater than a non-smoker. Smoking for 4 to 12 years doubles the risk. But the most vulnerable are long-time smokers or anyone who has smoked for 12 or more years; the chances of needing a root canal increases to 120% more than non-smokers!
Fortunately, you can greatly reduce your need for root canals by quitting cigarette smoking and staying smoke-free. In fact, if you stay smoke-free for at least nine years, your chances of needing a root canal treatment can drop as low as a non-smoker’s.
Rely on Your Dentist
It is important to remember that your dentist is the one person who can help you maintain good oral health. With regular visits and dental cleanings, your dentist can monitor your dental health and help alleviate some of the consequences of smoking.