Possible Link between Cigarette Smoking and Root Canal Treatment

Smoking cigarettes has been associated with health conditions from heart disease to lung cancer. The American Dental Association has revealed that smokers are more likely to suffer dental diseases as well. Dr. Poneh Ghasri DDS, West Hollywood dentist, recommends that smokers seek dental care at least every six months or more frequently if their dental health requires it.

A study published in the Journal of Dental Research in 2006 followed male smokers for nearly 30 years and tracked information about their dental health. Every three years, the study participants were given a comprehensive dental exam to check for tartar, gum disease, cavities and tooth mobility. Various risk factors for root canal, including cavities and age were also tracked.

Researchers discovered that root canals were dramatically more likely in smokers than in non-smokers, and the risk increased with the number of cigarettes smoked a day and the amount of time spent smoking. Reduced circulation and delayed healing time may contribute to the development of dental diseases that necessitate root canals in smokers. Although women were not included in the study, the researchers surmised that the link would be present in female smokers, too. Researchers concluded that preventing tobacco use and treating tobacco addiction are crucial to maintaining good health.

If you smoke, you may need frequent dental exams to ensure good dental health and to prevent future problems. Contact us today to schedule your next professional dental exam, cleaning and X-ray.