Smoking and oral hygiene

Most smokers are unaware of the damage smoking can have on their oral health. Tobacco smoking can cause oral cancer, periodontal disease, halitosis and teeth staining.  

Smokers are four times more likely to develop oral cancer and six times more likely to develop periodontal disease. Smoking also doubles the risk of suffering complications post dental surgery. 

In providing dental care, bc dental are in a unique position to diagnose smoking related diseases. And, if your one of the 35% of Australian smokers who will try and quit smoking this year, we can provide information and support to help you get there. Beyond supporting best of oral health, smoking cessation also reduces the risk of myocardial infarction by 50% within the first year. 

Oral cancer checks are part of our regular exam procedure and we encourage patients to raise questions if they have any concerns or queries, including how to quit smoking.