Figure 11.2: Very Brief Advice pathway Figure 11.2 shows that dental teams should: ask all patients about tobacco use, as part of medical history and recheck and record this at every visit, with questions such as: Do you smoke? Do you use tobacco products, for example snuff, paan, chewing tobacco, or shisha? Have you ever smoked or used tobacco in the past? When did you stop? examine all patients (oral cancer screening, basic periodontal examination, monitor or refer lesions) and record signs of tobacco use, including: staining halitosis mucosal changes advise those at risk on method of quitting, without asking patients if they want to quit (which can lead to defensiveness) and avoiding detailed questions: Research shows the best way to stop is with a combination of specialist support and medication
These substances can damage the immune system, cause inflammation of the airways, increasing the risk of asthma and other respiratory problems, and can also cause lung, skin and bladder cancer
Help patient to identify what the benefits to themselves and their family could include
Hecht et al., 1986)
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