Tobacco cessation program: resources to help organize a dental office program

When dentists and dental office team members assist their patients in becoming tobacco free, they are eliminating causative/contributing factors for a number of oral conditions, including cancer and periodontal diseases. These tobacco cessation services, when successful, can also improve the outcome of dental treatment and at the same time add quality and years to patients' lives. Dental offices that would like to provide and document tobacco cessation services will find the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry web site www.umn.edu/ perio/tobacco a useful resource. For some tobacco-using patients who are interested in quitting, our Individual Counseling Clinic at (612) 626-0440 is a possible option, and referrals are welcome. For further information, please contact Dr. Stafne at stafn001@umn.edu.