Gum Disease and Smoking: What You Need to Know

Did you know that smoking is one of the leading causes of gum disease in Australia? If you’re a smoker, you’re up to six times more likely to develop periodontal (gum) disease — which can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and even affect your overall health.

At Pain Free Dentist Sydney, we understand how smoking affects your gums and teeth — and we’re here to help you prevent, manage, and treat gum disease with compassion and care.

How Smoking Affects Your Gums

Smoking impacts the gums in several damaging ways:

  • Reduces blood flow to the gum tissue

  • Delays healing after dental treatments

  • Masks symptoms like bleeding, making gum disease harder to detect

  • Weakens immune response, allowing infection to worsen

  • Increases plaque and tartar buildup

Even if your gums “look healthy,” smoking may be silently causing damage beneath the surface.

Signs of Gum Disease (Especially in Smokers)

  • Bad breath that doesn’t go away

  • Receding gums or “long” teeth

  • Loose or shifting teeth

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums

  • Bleeding when brushing or flossing

  • Pus between teeth and gums

Smokers may not experience early warning signs like bleeding, so regular check-ups are essential.

Can You Reverse the Damage?

The earlier gum disease is detected, the better the outcome. While advanced periodontitis can’t be fully reversed, it can be managed and stabilised.

Quitting smoking, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, and receiving professional gum care are key steps toward preserving your teeth and health.

Gum Disease Treatment Options at Pain Free Dentist Sydney

We offer:

  • Comprehensive gum health assessments

  • Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)

  • Laser gum therapy for advanced cases

  • Personalised oral hygiene plans

  • Supportive care for patients who smoke or are quitting

We create a non-judgmental, supportive space for all patients — whether you're a current or former smoker.

Smoking, Gum Disease & Whole-Body Health

Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth — it’s linked to:

  • Heart disease

  • Stroke

  • Diabetes

  • Respiratory issues

  • Low birth weight in pregnancy

Taking care of your gums is an important part of protecting your overall health.

Why Choose Pain Free Dentist Sydney?

✔ Gentle, compassionate care for smokers and ex-smokers
✔ Focus on prevention and gum stabilisation
✔ Laser and non-surgical periodontal options
✔ Convenient Leichhardt location in Inner West Sydney

Book a Gum Health Check Today

Smoking doesn’t have to cost you your smile. Let’s take the first step together.

📞 Call (02) 9558 8988
💻 Book online at Pain Free Dentist Sydney