A dentist can often tell if a patient has smoked, even if they have not smoked recently. This is because smoking leaves behind several telltale signs in the mouth, including:
- Stained teeth: Nicotine and tar from cigarettes can stain teeth a yellow or brown color.
- Gum disease: Smoking damages the gums and makes them more susceptible to infection.
- Bad breath: Smoking causes bad breath due to the chemicals in cigarettes.
- Oral cancer: Smoking is a major risk factor for oral cancer.
Dentists can also use a special light to examine the inside of the mouth. This light can reveal precancerous and cancerous lesions that are not visible to the naked eye.
