Quitting tobacco is difficult because all forms of it—cigarettes, cigars and spit (chewing) tobacco—contain nicotine and nicotine is the agent in tobacco that's capable of causing addiction or dependence. However, you can quit once and for all. The reasons for quitting are simple: You'll lower the chances of having a heart attack, stroke or cancer, including oral cancer. A smoke-free environment is healthier for those around you. If you're pregnant, you'll improve your chances of having a healthy baby. And, the money spent on tobacco can be used on other things.
We at Suwanee Dental Care want to help you quit when you are ready. Come in and let us know and we can walk you through some ways to do it. We know you can quit!!!
The ADA has some good offerings on how quit smoking:
- Set a date to quit and stick to it. Choose a “low stress” time to quit
- Enlist the support of your family, friends and co-workers.
- Ask your dentist or physician about nicotine replacement therapy for use in cessation attempts. Using these medicines can double your chances of quitting for good.
- Remove tobacco and tobacco paraphernalia from your home, office and car.
- Seek tobacco-free environments to curve your temptations.
- Exercise. It may make you feel better about yourself and your decision to quit smoking.
- When you crave a tobacco—exercise the 4 D’s:
- Delay—craving will pass in 5–10 minutes
- Drink water—it will help to wash the toxins from your body
- Do something else—distract yourself by being active.
- Deep breathing—deep inhalations and exhalations are relaxing.
- Anticipate problems and have a realistic plan to deal with challenges.
- Call 1-800-QUITNOW or go to www.smokefree.gov Link opens in separate window. Pop-up Blocker may need to be disabled. for help.
