Since 1977, the American Cancer Society has held its annual “Great American Smokeout” on the third Thursday in November. The event is meant to encourage Americans who smoke (there are an estimated 45 million who do) to stop smoking. The idea behind the event is that people will give up smoking for the full 24 hours, leading to a major life-changing decision to give up smoking permanently. Many people find dentist specialists, such as a periodontist or endodontist — all recommend that smoking — as well as chewing and other use of tobacco — should be given up for better oral health.
There are many great activities and events that take place during the day backed by the American Cancer Society. Celebrities have given their testimonies about giving up tobacco. Even one national sandwich company went as far as giving away free “cold turkey” sandwiches. There are many oral and physical health issues that are connected to smoking tobacco, and the American Cancer Society has sought to inform individuals of the negative and possibly life-threatening effects of smoking.
Tobacco use has been linked to heart disease, stroke, emphysema, and cancer (specifically throat and lung cancer). There are also a number of oral health effects from smoking tobacco: bad breath, tooth discoloration, and plaque buildup are a few of the more noticeable effects of smoking. However, loss of bone within the jaw, gum disease, and oral cancer are all results of smoking tobacco. Dentists have an especially hard time with dental implant procedures for tobacco users.
Nearly one third of American smokers are expected to participate in the “Great American Smokeout” this year; that’s roughly 15 million participants. By quitting smoking, individuals can cut the risk of oral cancer by more than 50 percent. The American Cancer Society has helped raise awareness of the effects associated with tobacco use; hopefully the “Great American Smokeout” will continue to kick tobacco in the butt.