Smoking & Oral Hygiene in Teens

Smoking is a significant risk factor for periodontal disease as well as other systemic diseases. Another risk factor is poor oral hygiene. These two risk behaviors, when started early, might become life-long habits.

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Clinical Implications: Tobacco cessation advice as well as oral hygiene coaching during routine dental visits for teens is advised. Research suggests that teens are more likely to listen to dental professionals about smoking risks than their parents.