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Smoking: A Real Drag On Your Oral Health

smoking man

Few things are more detrimental to your oral health than smoking and the use of tobacco products. Lung cancer and serious breathing conditions are specifically associated with smoking. Another serious concern that is often overlooked until it becomes a major problem is the oral health destruction caused by tobacco usage. The devastation caused by smoking and tobacco can pose such serious effects that the mouth can never recover.

Periodontal disease and oral cancer are the two most devastating effects caused by tobacco usage. With continued use of tobacco, these conditions have the ability to destroy your oral health and also compromise the health of your entire body.

Gum disease is a serious dental concern because of how rapidly it can go from mild to severe. Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease, starting as red, swollen, and tender gums. In its earliest stage, gingivitis is treatable and its effects are reversible with treatment. However, gum disease that is allowed to progress will become so significantly severe that it will threaten the health of the entire mouth. Periodontal disease is the severe infection of the gums that surround and support the teeth. Once the gums reach the point of severe infection, the teeth lose the strength that is holding them in place. They will become loose and eventually fall out unless extensive, and expensive, dental intervention is performed. Smoking causes the soft tissues inside the mouth to become irritated and vulnerable to infection. Smoking is one of the leading causes of periodontal disease.

Oral cancer is also directly related to smoking and the use of tobacco products. With every drag on a cigarette or cigar or with every wad of chew put into your mouth, a negative reaction occurs with the soft tissues. Tobacco causes the gums, cheeks, tongue, and any other soft tissues to become irritated. Tobacco also kills antibodies inside the mouth that are meant to be fighting off toxins. When the antibodies cannot do their job, the immune system is compromised, leaving you extremely vulnerable to severe health complications like oral cancer.

At Peninsula Dentistry, we understand that an addiction to tobacco can be hard to break. Yet we also understand how continued use of tobacco can cause detrimental effects to your oral health. Contact us today to learn how you can overcome the damage that tobacco has caused to your oral health. We are here for you.

Posted on behalf of Peninsula Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

538 Savannah Hwy
Charleston, SC 29407

Phone: (843) 507-5481

FAX: (843) 577-4653

Email:

Monday - Thursday 8am - 5pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm

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Dentistry should be as affordable as it is high-quality. At Peninsula Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we firmly believe that the terms of a dental insurance plan (or lack thereof) should not dictate the quality of care our patients deserve. That’s why we are pleased to offer our in-house savings plan. Now, patients who are uninsured can STILL save on general, preventative, and even ortho services!

Our Patients Testimonials

Our Patients Reviews

Absolutely phenomenal dental office. Not only are the dentists outstanding at their craft but, like every person in the office, they are incredibly friendly and genuine. And that is so important. I earnestly recommend Peninsula if you are looking for the highest quality care, expertise and, equally important, quality people. I would give them 10 stars if I could.
Matthew W. L.
The BEST dentist. Megan the hygienist is always so professional and thorough! Every time I have a visit here the staff from the front desk to back are always so efficient and courteous. Dr. McPherson is an amazing dentist and always takes time to explain everything in a way that makes sense. I will only go to Peninsula for all my dental needs!
Dana M.
Excellent staff and excellent experience from entering until leaving. Dr. McPherson is terrific!! Her assistant Kate is very knowledgeable and caring. I felt like I had two dentist attending to me. This was my first visit to this practice. I’ll always remain a patient due to my experience
John C.

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. James B. Wisner

Dr. James B. Wisner was raised in Charleston and attended Porter-Gaud High School. He graduated from The Honors College at The University of South Carolina in 1996 and received his D.M.D. degree in 2002 from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine.

Dr. Wisner served in Las Vegas, Nevada and Spangdahlem, Germany as a Captain in the United States Air Force for three years where he completed an AEGD residency and was certified in Intravenous Conscious Sedation.

Dr. Caitlin McPherson

Dr. Caitlin McPherson was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina. A graduate of Porter Gaud High School, she went on to receive her Bachelors of Science from Clemson University’s Calhoun Honors College. Dr. McPherson earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine. She is an active member of The American Dental Association and The Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. McPherson performs all aspects of general dentistry and is Invisalign certified. Dr. McPherson especially enjoys treating pediatric patients.

Address

538 Savannah Hwy
Charleston, SC 29407

Phone (843) 507-5481
Fax (843) 577-4653
Email

Opening Hours

Monday - Thursday 8am - 5pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm

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