There are a lot of reasons to quit smoking. Your lung health, the respiratory health of those around you, and cost are some of the most popular reasons. As dental professionals, of course, we are also concerned about your oral health. Smoking can stain your teeth and cause serious damage to your gums.

Smoking actually weakens your immune system, which makes it harder to fight off gum infection. Once you have gum damage, smoking also makes it harder for your gums to heal. According to the Center for Disease Control, a smoker has twice the risk for gum disease compared with a nonsmoker. It is important to note that tobacco use in any form—cigarettes, pipes, and smokeless (spit) tobacco—raises your risk for gum disease. Treatment for gum disease also tends to be less effective in patients who continue to smoke during treatment, or who return to smoking soon after.

We know that it can be difficult to quit smoking for many different reasons, so we wanted to gather a few local resources that will fit your lifestyle and help you quit. If you have any questions about your options and your own personal situation, we recommend that you consult with your primary care physician. Here are some resources in Orange County that aim to help community members stop smoking!

Take a free class at Mission Hospital

Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo offers free and low cost classes and workshops to the community on a variety of topics. They frequently offer introductory workshops for community members who want to quit smoking but need some help getting started. You can check their schedule of programs on their website, which is updated regularly.

Reach out to the American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society serves the entire Orange County area from their office located in Santa Ana. They offer a 24/7 hotline service for those who need support throughout the cessation process. The American Cancer Society also works with community members to help them connect with the best local resources for their needs and situation.

Try acupuncture?

Some acupuncturists actually offer treatments designed to help their patients overcome the habit of smoking. There is one practice in Irvine who offers this specific treatment. As always, be sure to talk to your primary care physician about your options!

Remember that your health is always worth prioritizing. If you’re ready to quit smoking, check out some of these local resources! If you have any questions about how smoking has affected your teeth, schedule a consultation with us today!