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According to a recent study, teens who smoke are less likely to follow-up with adequate oral hygiene procedures. The study suggests that such teenagers are doubling their poor oral health habits, since they not only smoke, which increases the chance of periodontal disease, they also do not brush their teeth more than once per day which is known to increase the potential for the development of periodontal disease.

Among the reasons of poor oral hygiene and smoking is thought to be lower school performance and reduced socio-economic condition status. The study suggests that there may be a link between a mother's education and the oral condition of her children.

The recent study was carried out by team headed by Sisko Honkala, Associate Professor of Kuwait University. The study assessed the Adolescent Health and Lifestyle Survey conducted in Finland. The findings are highlighted in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology.

A lot of people do not have enough information about the effects of smoking on oral hygiene. However, a lot of teenagers start smoking out of curiosity; they continue this habit without being fully aware of its effects on their oral health.

Dr. Nigel Carter, chief Executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, said that study indicated the importance of oral health education. Dr. Carter explained “It is clear from the findings of the research that this particular age group could potentially have many oral health problems relating to their lifestyle choices. Multiple unhealthy behaviors, particularly at an age when you are still developing, can have a lasting impact.”

He continued “Parents and schools must look to educate young adults and adolescents on the choices they are making and the impact they have, not just on their oral health, but on their general health too. It is not unreasonable to suggest this trend would be reflected throughout the generations, as in general smokers have a greater risk gum disease through poor lifestyle and oral hygiene habits.”