CHICAGO – November 11, 2003 – Swedish researchers may have found why tobacco smoking impairs the outcome of surgical
and non-surgical periodontal therapy. According to the findings published in the Journal of Periodontology,
smokers will want to quit before oral surgery in preparation for a prompt recovery.
“In this study we investigated the relationship between tobacco smoking and the inflammatory response in smokers who consumed
Research also shows that tobacco smoking releases enzymes that could increase the development of periodontitis, a bacterial infection of the gums, bone and attachment fibers that support the teeth and hold them in the jaw. Once smokers quit, oral health begins to improve.
“Patients who want to quit smoking are urged to increase brushing and flossing their teeth and gums,” said Rethman. “It's suggested that the fresh clean feeling a person feels in the mouth after brushing and flossing may curb the urge to smoke. Ironically, these simple tips also help to prevent periodontal diseases.”
* EDITOR'S NOTE: Representatives of the media may contact the AAP Public Affairs Department to receive a copy of the study Effect of Tobacco Smoking on Neutrophil Activity Following Periodontal Surgery. Abstracts of Journal of Periodontology articles are available to the public online. Full-text of studies may be accessed by AAP members and Journal subscribers or purchased online.
Find out if you are at risk for periodontal diseases by taking the Academy’s risk assessment test.
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