Center for Disease Control gets over 220,000 smokers to quit

A recent 2013 study conducted by the Center for Disease Control shows that due its 2012 anti smoking campaign, it has influenced well over 220,000 smokers to quit.  As part of a massive $50+ million advertising campaign via print and television ads, it featured patients who suffered diseases associated with smoking: head and neck cancer including tongue, palate, and jaw cancers, asthma, heart disease, and stroke.

CDC Director Tom Frieden, MD, MPH, who explained in a video response to the study, said it best: 
"The impact of this ad campaign is further proof that sustained, hard-hitting media campaigns... save lives.  Tobacco companies spend more in three days than the CDC spends in a year running these ads. It is a David and Goliath fight."

The effects of smoking are well documented in medical, dental, and public health literature.  In addition to systemic side effects, smoking has been shown to cause teeth staining, dry mouth which may lead to increased risk of caries/tooth decay/cavities, periodontal disease, and higher likelihood of oral and tongue cancer.

There are products your dentist and doctor may be able to prescribe to help eliminate the smoking and tobacco habit.  Products to consider include Chantix, Zyban (Bupropion), and NicoDerm CQ patches.

If you have any questions, please discuss with your dentist which products and methods may be more suitable and helpful in your case.

From your Bellevue dentist, 

Dr. Peter Chien
www.bellevuefamilydentistry.com
(425) 614-1600