The Oral Health Foundation has welcomed progress on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill after it cleared its final stage in the House of Lords.

The legislation now returns to the House of Commons before it becomes law.

If passed, the Bill will introduce new measures aimed at creating a “smokefree generation”, preventing young people from ever legally buying tobacco and helping reduce smoking rates across the UK.

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A major step for public health

Smoking remains the biggest preventable cause of illness and death in the UK. It is also one of the most harmful habits for oral health.

The Oral Health Foundation says the new law could help protect millions of people from serious dental problems in the future.

"This legislation represents a hugely important step towards protecting future generations from the devastating harms caused by tobacco. Smoking remains one of the biggest threats to oral health, significantly increasing the risk of gum disease, tooth loss and mouth cancer.

"Creating a smokefree generation has the potential to transform the nation’s health, and the impact will be felt not only in reducing cancer and heart disease, but also in preventing thousands of cases of serious oral disease each year."

Dr Rachael England, Head of Policy and Advocacy

We welcome the strong cross-party support for this landmark bill and hope it will be matched by continued investment in prevention and support to help people quit smoking for good.

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The damage smoking causes to your mouth

Smoking does not just affect the lungs and heart. It can also have a serious impact on the mouth.

People who smoke are far more likely to develop severe gum disease, lose teeth and develop mouth cancer.

The Oral Health Foundation says reducing smoking rates is one of the most effective ways to improve the nation’s oral health and prevent thousands of cases of serious disease each year.

The charity believes the new law could play an important role in protecting future generations and improving the health of people across the UK.