Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your mouth and overall health.

Smoking harms your teeth, gums and the soft tissues inside your mouth. Stopping gives your body a chance to heal.

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How smoking affects your mouth

Smoking increases your risk of:

• Gum disease.
• Mouth cancer.
• Stained teeth.
• Bad breath.
• Slow healing after dental treatment.

People who smoke are more likely to lose teeth and have more dental problems over time.

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How your mouth benefits when you quit

When you stop smoking:

• Your gums get a better blood supply and can heal more easily.
• Treatment for gum disease works better.
• Your risk of mouth cancer falls over time.
• Bad breath improves.
• New staining builds up more slowly.

Your dentist may notice improvements in your gum health within weeks.

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Other health benefits of quitting

Stopping smoking also:

• Improves your quality of life.
• Lowers your risk of heart and lung disease.
• Reduces your risk of many cancers.
• Helps you breathe more easily.
• Protects the health of people around you.
• Saves money.

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What happens after you quit

Your body starts to recover quickly.

• After minutes: your heart rate starts to drop.
• After a day: nicotine levels in your blood fall.
• After a few days: carbon monoxide levels return to normal.
• After weeks to months: coughing and shortness of breath improve.
• Over the years: your risk of heart disease, stroke and many cancers continues to fall.

The longer you stay smoke-free, the greater the benefits.

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Coping with withdrawal

Nicotine withdrawal can feel difficult, but it is a sign your body is recovering.

Common symptoms include:

• Cravings for cigarettes.
• Feeling restless.
• Trouble concentrating or sleeping.
• Irritability or anxiety.
• Increased appetite.

These symptoms usually improve within a few weeks.

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Taking the first steps

First steps to quitting are:

• Choose a quit date.
• Write down your reasons for stopping.
• Tell friends and family so they can support you.
• Think about your smoking triggers and how to avoid them.
• Keep busy when cravings hit.
• Try gentle exercise to manage urges.
• Use stop-smoking aids if needed.

Nicotine replacement products and other medicines can make quitting easier. Your dentist, doctor or pharmacist can advise you.

Getting support makes quitting more likely to succeed. If you slip up, do not give up – many people need several attempts before they stop for good.

You can also contact your local stop smoking service for advice and support. These services can offer practical help, medicines and encouragement to help you quit.

For more information and support (UK), visit: NHS UK.