Smoking cessation practices in the dental profession.

AIM: The purpose of this review is to describe the current status of smoking cessation initiatives in the dental profession. REVIEW: A review of the initiatives undertaken by the dental profession to adopt smoking cessation recommendations as standard of care is presented. SUMMARY: Facts about the effects of smoking on the major oral diseases are stated and supported by national statistics. The barriers for compliance by dental professionals are described based on published research, but even more importantly, possible solutions are offered. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Awareness of the harmful effects of smoking tobacco can help dental professionals become more motivated to comply with current recommendations for smoking cessation in order to improve the oral and general health of the public.