Eastern Florida State College Bulletin Board on Effects of Smoking

Smoking Kills Your Smile: The Correlation of Smoking & Gum Recession

Illustration of a split mouth showing healthy white teeth on one side and stained yellow teeth on the other, representing the impact of diet and smoking on oral health.

Risk factors

  • Smoking tobacco, Vaping, Hookah
  • Aggressive brushing
  • Poor oral hygiene and lack of dental cleanings
  • Plaque Buildup

Warning Signs

  • Red or swollen gums
  • Tender or bleeding gums
  • Painful chewing
  • Loose & Sensitive teeth Gums that have pulled away from your teeth

Treatment

  • Tissue grafting
  • Bone grafting
  • If tooth loss:  prosthetics such as implants, bridges, or fixed prosthetics
Comparison of healthy gums without recession and gums with recession, illustrating the impact of smoking on oral health and gum condition.

Other Effects of Smoking

  • Periodontal disease
  • Bone loss
  • Increased healing time with procedures
  • Tissue loss by teeth
  • Tooth loss

Cost of Smoking

Severe gingival recession will result in bone grafting and connective tissue grafting which can cost anywhere from $800 – $2,000 or more.

Dental insurance typically does not cover cost of surgical procedures which means cost comes out of YOUR pocket!