Dental Patient's Knowledge And Perceptions About The Effects Of Smoking And Role Of Dentists In Smoking Cessation Activities

Abstract

Background: Smoking is associated with a large number of oral conditions such as staining teeth, bad breath, gum disease, obstruction of wound healing, stomach cancer and oral cancer. These effects are often visible and can be reversed in the early stages after quitting. As part of health professions, dentists are often in contact with the general population, and there is evidence that they are effective in providing advice on quitting smoking, like any other group of health care institutions.

Materials and Methods: Patients' knowledge of the effects of smoking and their attitudes towards the role of dentists in smoking cessation activities was analyzed through a self-updating questionnaire and compared to their smoking status (non-smokers, smokers and heavy smokers), questionnaire was electronically filled.

Results: The results showed that patients had very positive attitudes towards the role of dentists in quitting smoking. The result[1]s also show that although patients have a good knowledge of the effects of smoking on public health, smokers are less aware of the relationship between smoking, gum disease and wound healing.

Conclusions: Dentists should inform their patients about the oral effects of smoking and strongly advise them not to smoke, especially in patients diagnosed with periodontal disease and requiring surgical procedures.