The British Dental Health Foundation has revealed it wants to be a part of the team that works towards a proposed tobacco-free generation by 2025. This announcement follows the Royal Society of Public Health’s proposal to change tobacco regulations in the UK. The Foundation believes these regulations will not only save countless lives but immensely improve adult dental hygiene.
Tobacco and Oral Health
Chief Executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter OBE says smoking is the leading cause of many serious oral health problems including worsening gum disease, which is one of the most common causes of caries in UK adults. “Every year almost seven thousand people in the UK are diagnosed with mouth cancer and it leads to more death than testicular and cervical cancer combined.” Ensure you look after your oral hygiene by regularly visiting your local dentist.
E-Cigarettes Light Up
The Royal Society of Public Health has proposed changes include a smoking exclusion zone outside schools, pub and bars, and e-cigarettes to be for sale everywhere you can purchase tobacco. The review found that e-cigarettes are 95 percent less harmful to health than tobacco and the number one aid smokers use to quit. Dr Carter said getting smokers to use safer forms of nicotine, such as e-cigarettes, can be highly effective in helping people to quit and that is something the Foundation fully supports. “We need to spread the message that e-cigarettes, while not risk free, are much less harmful than smoking, as currently nearly half the population are not aware of this.”
The British Dental Health Foundation believes there is a long way to go before England has a smoke-free lifestyle, but each step towards this mission is a positive one with lives saved. Whether you are a smoker or not, it is always important to frequent your dentist to ensure your oral health is in good condition.