If you recently stopped smoking and have some problems with your teeth and smile from this habit, you may want to visit a cosmetic dentistry clinic for help. Smoking for many years can have devastating effects on a person's teeth and smile, and a cosmetic dentist might be able to help you reverse or fix some of these issues. Here are a few different services you might need to look into that may have occurred from smoking.

Discolored Teeth

One of the main effects smoking can have on teeth is discoloration. The exposure of tar and smoke to your teeth will cause them to change from white to yellow or brownish colors. These types of stains are typically extrinsic stains, which means they are located on the exterior parts of the teeth. Because of this, professional teeth-whitening services are usually very helpful for fixing this problem. If you have discolored teeth from smoking all those years, get your teeth whitened. This will greatly improve your appearance and self-esteem.

Missing Teeth

People who smoke for many years and do not provide proper care for their teeth are more prone to losing teeth. Lost teeth from smoking generally occurs from gum disease. Gum disease leads to recession of the gums, and the gums cannot hold teeth in place when they recede too much. If you are missing a tooth, a cosmetic dentist can replace it for you.

Replacing teeth is something dentists can do in several ways, and dental implants is one option. To get a dental implant, you must have healthy gums. If this is not a good option for you, the dentist might recommend replacing the tooth with a dental bridge.

Gum Problems

Gum problems are more serious than other cosmetic issues, but a cosmetic dentist might still be able to help you. The main problem gums can experience is gum disease. This is a disease that occurs when plaque is left on teeth for a long period of time. The plaque contains bacteria, and the bacteria causes infections in the gums. If you have any level of gum disease, you will need to get this treated by a dentist. Once it is treated, your gums will be healthier, and your overall oral health will also improve.

Visiting a cosmetic dentist is a great idea after you stop smoking. If you would like to learn more about how a cosmetic dentist can help you, contact one today.