Dental professionals highly discourage smoking, in general, let alone after a 23233 root canal therapy. Smoking will not only slow down your recovery process but will also increase your likelihood of developing other oral health issues. Conversely, avoiding smoking will help you achieve better oral health.
What You Should Know About Smoking and Root Canal Treatments
Reasons Why Smoking and Root Canal Treatments Don’t Mix Well
Smoking Delays Your Recovery Process
A root canal treatment leaves your mouth feeling numb for the first few hours and tender in the days following your procedure. For this reason, your endodontist will provide you with aftercare instructions to help speed up your recovery time.
Since your mouth is more vulnerable and sensitive during this period, they’ll instruct you to refrain from smoking. Otherwise, this habit will prolong your recovery process as it interferes with healthy blood flow and inhibits the supply of oxygen and nutrients to your gums.
Smoking Increases Your Risk of Complications
Did you know that smoking can lead to inflammation? According to experts, nicotine triggers certain white blood cells called neutrophils to release molecules that cause increased inflammation throughout the body. Since inflammation weakens your immune system, smoking after your root canal procedure will increase your likelihood of developing complications.
Smoking Increases Your Risk of Needing More Root Canal Treatments
Studies show that smokers are twice more likely to require root canal therapy than nonsmokers. The longer you smoke, the higher your need for more root canal treatments.
What Are the Alternatives to Smoking?
Tobacco contains a substance called nicotine that makes smoking highly addictive. When cigarettes deliver nicotine to your brain, it triggers the release of chemicals that make you feel good. If you’re a regular smoker who’s looking to find ways to delay your need to smoke, try engaging in a hobby, chewing gum, exercising, drinking plenty of water, or focusing on your breathing.
Do You Need 23233 Root Canal Therapy?
The dedicated team of specialists in endodontics and microsurgery at Commonwealth Endodontics has delivered quality care to patients for over 25 years. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.