If you’ve decided to stop smoking, we’re so proud of you! Smoking is extremely dangerous to your oral health, especially because it increases your risks of developing gum disease and oral cancer. But, we do understand that quitting the habit is difficult, which is why we are happy to help you make things a little easier by suggesting the following five tips:

Tip No. 1: Have a plan
One of the best ways that you can succeed when quitting your smoking habit is by creating a plan. Pick a day to quit smoking and do everything you can to avoid cigarettes and tobacco products following that day. You can also create a plan and use tools online at smokefree.gov or you can call the toll-free number: 1-800-QUIT-NOW. You can also download a quit-smoking app that will track your progress.

Tip No. 2: Don’t do it alone
Make sure you have the support of your loved ones when you quit. This will help you stay motivated and determined. Tell your family and friends that you have decided to quit, ask them for support, and give them an idea of what they can do to help you. We also recommend spending time with people who do not smoke as well as talking to your friends who have also quit the habit. They can give you the advice you need.

Tip No. 3: Stay busy
It’s important to keep your mind off of tobacco products and smoking. So, why not do so by starting a new hobby, like exercising? This will help you stay fit and distracted. We also recommend going on dinner and movie dates with your friends and family. You can also keep your mouth busy and healthy by chewing sugarless gum throughout the day.

Tip No. 4: Avoid smoking triggers
Try to stay away from people, things, and places that tempt you to smoke. Some common triggers include stress, alcohol, hanging out with people who smoke, and coffee. To give you the best chance possible, we recommend throwing out your cigarettes, lighters, and ashtrays. We also suggest staying away from places that allow smoking.

Tip No. 5: Reward your accomplishments
Make sure you reward yourself! Every smoke-free hour is an accomplishment, so you should give yourself small rewards throughout the day. You can also make a long-term goal and, with all of the money saved up from not buying cigarettes, you can finally have your big reward! Going minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, and years without smoking is a huge accomplishment, so make sure you give yourself the reward you deserve.

If you would like additional help from our dentist, [heshe] will be happy to meet with you! Please feel free to call our office today and schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you!

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