Ontario Dentists Support Changes to Smoke-Free Ontario Act

TORONTO, Nov. 7, 2014 /CNW/ - The Ontario Dental Association (ODA) supports today's move by the Ontario government to strengthen the Smoke-Free Ontario Act to protect people of all ages, and young people in particular, from the harmful effects of tobacco.

The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care today announced new regulations under the Act which will prohibit smoking on restaurant patios, playgrounds and certain other public spaces effective January 1, 2015. It will also be illegal to sell tobacco products on university and college campuses.

"As the experts in oral health care, dentists see the damage tobacco does to the mouth and teeth every day," says Dr. Gerald Smith, President of the ODA. "We applaud the government for taking measures to restrict the availability and use of tobacco products and, in the long term, reduce the harmful effects on a person's oral and overall health."

Seventy-five percent of periodontal (gum) disease in adults may be caused by smoking. Tobacco products – including cigarettes, cigars and smokeless tobacco – have also been proven to cause tooth loss and oral cancers. Smokers also tend to suffer from bad breath, stained teeth and dry mouth.

Quitting smoking will improve your health and your life. Dentists are committed to helping their patients in the smoking cessation process. Talk to your dentist about quitting and your oral health.

SOURCE: Ontario Dental Association

Marcus Staviss, Ontario Dental Association, [email protected], 416-355-2268