Dentists urge Trafford smokers to kick the killer habit (From Messenger Newspapers)

Dentists urge smokers to kick the killer habit on No Smoking Day, March 13

8:00am Wednesday 13th March 2013 in News

DENTAL experts are urging Trafford’s smokers to kick the killer habit this No Smoking Day and cut their risk of lung, throat and mouth cancer.

Maple Road Dental Practice in Brooklands is highlighting the dangers and damage of smoking and supporting those keen to quit smoking with free counselling sessions.

Ian Hunt, clinical director at the practice, said: “I witness daily the damage smoking does to mouth, gums and teeth.

"From tar and nicotine turning teeth from yellow to brown after years of smoking, to gum disease - the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.

“And while people know smoking causes lung and throat cancer, many don’t appreciate the lethal oral damage. Smoking causes mouth cancer – a disease which could claim 30,000 lives in the next decade.”

Maple Road Dental Practice, which scooped British Dental Association practice of the year award, is supporting No Smoking Day (today, March 13 by offering free counselling sessions with trained advisers throughout March and April.

Former 20-a-day smoker, Simon Pimblett, has been cigarette-free for four months. Simon, recently married, explained: “I’ve smoked since I was 16, always known the dangers, but had tried – and failed - to quit on my own.

“After dental problems related to smoking, I’d had enough and thought I’d give the counselling sessions a try. I was supported, encouraged and was surrounded by those in the same boat.

"It’s worked for me and I’m determined to not turn back. “The difference it has made to my health and well-being is very noticeable. I now cycle regularly to work, which involves an 18-mile-a-day commute and my energy levels have soared.

"I also have in excess of £200 of extra disposable income every month which my wife is enjoying spending! We are treating ourselves to a lavish holiday later this year on the proceeds.”

And this year’s No Smoking Day campaign highlights the wealth – and health – benefits to stopping smoking.

Smokers are being urged to ‘swap fags for swag’ and focus on financial savings from quitting. With the average packet of cigarettes costing £7.46, a 20-a-day smoker could save more than £2720 every fag-free year.

Added Maple Road’s Ian Hunt: “We hope No Smoking Day helps smokers focus on improving their health – and wealth – by quitting the habit.

"And we’re here to help those who need our support.”