Take action this Stoptober

Julie Deverick considers the role of the dental professionals in helping patients quit.

Stoptober has never been more relevant considering the many challenges of the last few months. The country went into lockdown in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, which meant most people were forced to stay at home to prevent spreading the virus.

Being confined away from loved ones can make anyone vulnerable to temptation. However, the negative effects of this situation might’ve been even more profound for some smokers who increased their tobacco intake as a way to cope with stress and anxiety.

Besides Covid-19 being a major concern, the lack of a normal routine may have given rise to unhealthy habits such as snacking on sugary food and drinks, and neglecting to take care of one’s teeth and gums. As dental practices were also closed during the nationwide lockdown, patients would have been unable to visit their dental hygienist or dental therapist for regular treatment. These factors all add up to create a recipe for disaster in regards to general and oral health, especially for smokers.