Are you thinking about quitting smoking this Stoptober? Your smile has plenty of reasons to be cheering you on!
Every October, Stoptober encourages smokers across the UK to try going smoke-free for 28 days – and yep, that includes vapers! While you might already know about the wider health benefits of stopping smoking, you might not know what it could mean for your teeth and gums…
Keep reading to learn how kicking the habit could be the best decision you make for your smile!
How Does Smoking Affect Teeth and Gums?
Smoking can contribute to many oral health problems, including:
- Yellow and stained teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Greater risk of gum disease
- Increased risk of tooth loss
- Increased risk of oral cancer
Smoking can also make gum problems harder to spot, which is another reason to keep up your regular check-ups at Sarum Dental, Salisbury, rather than waiting for an issue to arise.
Will My Smile Look Better If I Stop Smoking?
Undoubtedly! Stopping smoking removes regular exposure of your teeth to tobacco smoke and therefore prevents further staining. But if you already have staining that’s bothering you, our dental hygienists in Salisbury can help remove surface deposits and help your mouth feel wonderfully fresh and clean.
We also offer teeth whitening to help brighten your smile further once you’ve quit – a confidence-boosting reward for a deserving milestone!
A Fresh Start For Your Smile
Stoptober isn’t about being perfect overnight. This NHS campaign challenges smokers to aim for 28 smoke-free days, and offers tools and support to help manage cravings and keep going. And while you’re making a change for your wider health, it’s a brilliant opportunity to support your smile too:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste – that clean, fresh feeling can help break up your usual smoking routine.
- Floss between your teeth every day – another great ritual to help maintain your focus on a new, healthier routine for your mouth.
- Choose a sugar-free xylitol gum – chewing will give your mouth something to do when the urge to smoke strikes.
- Keep a bottle of water handy – taking regular sips will give your hands and mouth something to do, which can replace some of the habitual action of reaching for a cigarette.