What is the impact of smoking on my oral health?
Tobacco use, either from smoking or spit tobacco, is the leading cause of gum disease. It also contributes to the following oral conditions among others: Oral Cancer, Leukoplakia, Smoker’s Palate, Impaired Blood Circulation, Receding Gums, Halitosis, Dental Staining and Excess Dental Calculus. The good news is that within hours of quitting the body begins to repair itself. Recent studies have shown that success rates increase with the use of stop-smoking medication and help from a health professional. Dental hygienists are ideally situated to provide smoking cessation techniques through education, motivation, offering assistance and providing follow-up visits at regular intervals. We are always ready to assist anyone who is considering quitting smoking. (BC Cancer Agency, 2004)
