Smoking is very harmful to your health. It can make you sick with cancer, heart disease, and stroke. It can hurt your teeth and gums, causing decay, disease, bad breath, and tooth loss.

You may feel like quitting smoking is too difficult or too late. But the truth is you can quit smoking anytime and improve your health and well-being. Quitting can help your body and mind immediately and in the long run. It can also help your dental health and your smile.

Here are tips to help you quit smoking and live a healthier and happier life.

Find Your Reason to Quit

To quit smoking, you need a solid and personal reason to stop. This reason will help you beat the cravings and challenges of quitting. Your motivation may be to keep your family safe from secondhand smoke, lower your chance of getting sick or dying from smoking, save money, look younger, or feel better.

Prepare Before You Quit

Quitting smoking is easier when you prepare. Start by choosing a quit date that is soon and realistic. Let your friends, family, and coworkers know you are quitting and ask for their support. Stay away from people who smoke or tempt you to smoke. Consult your doctor or dentist about the best methods and medications to help you quit. They can also monitor your health and dental condition as you stop.

Next, eliminate everything that reminds you of smoking. Clean your home, car, and clothes to remove the smoke smell. Prepare for cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Have some healthy snacks, sugar-free gum, or water handy to keep your mouth busy. Find some activities or hobbies that can distract you from smoking. Relax your mind and body with breathing, meditation, or yoga.

Use Stop Smoking Aids

Nicotine addiction can significantly seize your brain and body. When you quit smoking, you may feel bad or have trouble focusing. Stop-smoking aids can help you cope with these feelings and lower or replace the nicotine in your body. Ask your doctor or dentist before using any stop-smoking aid. They can tell you the pros and cons of each one. Use them as instructed.

Lean on Your Loved Ones

Your loved ones can help you quit smoking in many ways. They can encourage you to stick to your plan, celebrate your achievements, and listen to your feelings. They can help you cope with stress, join you in healthy activities, and keep you company when you feel lonely.

Another option is to connect with a support group or a counselor who can give you expert guidance and suggestions on quitting smoking.

Maintain Optimal Dental Health

Your dental health can benefit from quitting smoking. To maintain optimal dental health after quitting smoking, follow these tips:
 

• Clean your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day

• Use floss daily to get rid of food and plaque between your teeth

• Gargle with an antibacterial mouthwash

• Stay away from foods and drinks that discolor your teeth

• Keep your mouth moist by drinking a lot of water

• Visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings

• Professional teeth whitening done by your dentist can help eliminate teeth discoloration and stain

Conclusion

You and your loved ones will benefit from quitting smoking. It can boost your health in many ways, including your dental health. It may be challenging initially, but it will get easier with time. You can quit smoking with the right help, support, and motivation. You can overcome nicotine addiction and live a healthier and happier life.

For more on how to quit smoking and maintaining optimal dental health, visit MAC Family Dentistry at our Mandeville, Louisiana office. Call (985) 238-3797 to schedule an appointment today.