Why do your teeth feel sensitive when you smoke?

Smoking is a common habit that many people enjoy, whether it’s through cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. If you’ve noticed that your teeth feel sensitive when you smoke, it’s a sign that your oral health might need some attention. This blog explains why smoking leads to tooth pain or sensitivity, and what you can do about it.

4 causes of tooth sensitivity from smoking
Tooth sensitivity from smoking can happen for a variety of often compounding factors. Let’s break it all down:

1. Exposed dentin. The enamel on your teeth serves as a protective barrier. If it wears down or if your gums recede, the underlying dentin becomes exposed. Our article Prevent Sensitive Teeth and Preserve Your Enamel talks about this. Dentin contains tiny tubules that connect to nerves, making your teeth more sensitive to heat, cold, and chemicals—including the ingredients in smoke.
2. Dry mouth. Smoking reduces saliva production, which is essential for protecting your teeth and neutralizing harmful acids. A dry mouth increases the likelihood of enamel erosion and leaves your teeth more vulnerable to sensitivity. Compounds in cannabis exaccerbate the dry mouth effect created by the act of smoking.

3. Heat irritation. The heat from pipe or cigarette smoke can irritate sensitive teeth, especially if the enamel is already compromised or if roots are exposed due to gum recession. A pipe generates more heat to the mouth than a cigarette, so pipe smoking may be worse for heat irritation whether you’re smoking tobacco or cannabis.

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4. Plaque and tartar build-up. Smoking accelerates the accumulation of plaque and tartar, which can lead to gum irritation, inflammation, and sensitivity. Left untreated, this can progress to gum disease. Tobacco is strongly associated with gum disease, which exposes the tooth roots and increases sensitivity. Cannabis smoke contains different chemical compounds and resin that can also irritate the soft tissues of the mouth and exacerbate sensitivity.

The best ways to manage tooth sensitivity as a smoker
If you’re experiencing sensitivity when you smoke, it’s important to address both the symptoms and the underlying causes—that’y why we don’t recommend a de-sensitizing toothpaste which will numb the symptoms without addressing the cauase of the problem. Address the symptoms in these 4 ways:

1. Stay hydrated. Drinking water throughout the day and while smoking can help combat dry mouth and reduce the harmful effects of smoking.

2. Prioritize overall oral hygiene. Regular cleaning can reduce the risk of enamel erosion and gum irritation. Brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush more than you think you need to (twice per day minimum). Floss daily to remove plaque build-up. Check out our article 6 Practices Required For Good Oral Health.

3. Make friends with your dentist. Professional dental care is essential to treat sensitivity effectively. We always recommend at least 2-3 annual dental exams and cleanings to anyone who smokes regularly. Your dentist can check for cavities, cracks, or gum disease. They can also provide fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel, and offer more detailed advice on managing sensitivity and improving oral health based on your specific case.

4. Consider cutting back or quitting smoking. Reducing or quitting smoking not only benefits your overall health but also improves saliva production, gum health, and reduces sensitivity. While perhaps not the easiest way to manage tooth sensitivity, it will definitely provide the most relief the quickest.

Dentists supporting Saskatoon smokers to protect their teeth
At our Saskatoon dental clinic, we’ll never shame you for smoking. We’re here to help you make the best and most informed choices for your oral health regardless of your lifestyle or habits. Read more about smoking and your teeth in our blog Smoking, vaping & your teeth: cannabis, nicotine, tobacco. Ask us about smoking and your oral health during your next appointment for non-judgemental advice and support.