Smoking

Smoking is detrimental to oral health and is among the top factors causing oral cancer. The following information outlines negative effects that smoking has on overall oral health.

FAQs

Does smoking increase my risk for oral cancer?
Yes. Smokers have a much greater risk of developing oral cancer than nonsmokers.

What effects does smoking have on oral health?
In addition to the risk of oral cancer, smokers are likely to have more tartar on their teeth and more gum disease than nonsmokers. Smoking also causes bad breath and stained teeth and can delay healing of oral surgeries.

What are the benefits of choosing not to smoke or to quit smoking?
Some of the benefits include:

• Less risk of developing oral and lung cancer and heart disease.
• Improved sense of taste and smell.
• Less stress on heart and blood pressure.
• Saving money.

What are some ways that I can quit smoking?
Some of the effective ways to quit smoking include:

• Joining a smoking cessation program.
• Chewing sugarless gum to keep your mouth occupied.
• Exercising.
• Using self-help books, pamphlets, video tapes, etc.
• Gaining the support of your family, friends, dentist and physician.

Resources

American Lung Association: Stop Smoking
CDC’s Tobacco Information and Prevention Sources
QuitNet
Tobacco.org