Smoking cessation and the role of the dental practitioner

J Ir Dent Assoc. 2015 Apr-May;61(2):90-2.

Abstract

As dentists we are uniquely positioned to influence the rate of tobacco smoking and could contribute to a decrease in the associated mortality and morbidity. The detrimental effects of smoking on oral health are well established; thus, a structured approach to initiate smoking cessation, help to manage the initial phase of withdrawal symptoms, and provide long-term support is an important role for our profession. It has been shown that smoking cessation advice for even a few minutes increases long-term smoking abstinence rates by 5%, which can be increased by 50-70% with the use of adjunctive pharmacotherapy, e.g., nicotine replacement therapy, for withdrawal symptoms. This article aims to give a brief overview of smoking in relation to oral health, review the management of tobacco smoking dependence, and discuss how we as dentists can help our patients to quit smoking.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Dentist-Patient Relations
  • Dentists*
  • Health Status
  • Humans
  • Oral Health
  • Professional Role*
  • Smoking Cessation / methods*
  • Tobacco Use Cessation Devices / classification
  • Tobacco Use Disorder / diagnosis
  • Tobacco Use Disorder / therapy