The month to STOP
Imagine waking up with fresher breath, whiter teeth, and more energy — all within a few short weeks.
This October, thousands of people across the UK are taking part in Stoptober — 28 days smoke-free.
Research shows that if you quit for 28 days, you’re five times more likely to quit for good, so one small step this month could have a positive impact the rest of your life.
At Brightside Dental, we see first-hand how smoking affects not just your overall health, but also your teeth, gums and confidence. Quitting isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do for your health, your smile, and your wallet.
Why Quit Smoking?
We all know that smoking is harmful. It’s the leading cause of preventable illness and death in England and the biggest cause of mouth cancer.
By quitting, you’ll dramatically reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke and lung disease, while improving your oral health and overall quality of life. And, of course, you’ll save money every week you stay smoke-free.
How Smoking Affects Your Dental Health
Smoking doesn’t just affect your lungs — it has a major impact on your mouth too.
Here’s how:
- Gum disease: Smokers are twice as likely to develop periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss.
- Tooth loss: Smoking weakens the structures that hold your teeth in place.
- Tooth decay: Chemicals in smoke encourage harmful bacteria that cause cavities.
- Gum recession: Smoking can make gums pull away from teeth, exposing sensitive roots.
- Staining: Tar and nicotine cause yellow and brown discolouration on teeth.
- Bad breath: Less saliva and more harmful bacteria lead to persistent bad breath.
- Loss of taste and smell: Tobacco dulls your taste buds and sense of smell.
- Mouth ulcers and sores: Irritation from smoke damages the soft tissues in your mouth.
- Mouth cancer: One of the most serious and well-established risks of smoking.
And it’s not just long-term – the moment you stop smoking, your body begins to heal:
- After 20 minutes: Pulse and blood pressure return to normal.
- After 8 hours: Oxygen levels rise; carbon monoxide levels drop by half.
- After 48 hours: Carbon monoxide clears, lungs start to recover, taste and smell improve.
- After 72 hours: Airways relax, breathing becomes easier, energy increases.
- After 2–12 weeks: Circulation improves, boosting blood flow to your heart and muscles.
- After 3–9 months: Breathing problems ease; lung function improves by up to 10%.
- After 1 year: Your risk of heart attack drops by half.
- After 10 years: Your risk of dying from lung cancer is cut in half.
Take the first step this month:
Every smoke-free day is a step towards better health — and a brighter smile.
At Brightside Dental, we’re here to support you with personalised advice, professional cleaning, and regular check-ups to help reverse staining and spot early signs of gum disease or oral cancer.
If you’re taking part in Stoptober, or just thinking about it, book an appointment below.
https://onlineappointment.carestack.uk/?dn=brightside&ln=1#/home
We’ll help you look after your mouth as you take this positive step towards a healthier you.
Ketan
P.S. It’s never too late to start Stoptober; we might be a few days in, but there’s still time to jump on board!
P.P.S. If you don’t smoke but you know someone who does, feel free to put them in touch with us – our referral initiative is live for the whole of October, which means they’ll get £25 off their appointment and a free electric toothbrush.
