Tobacco use is a risk factor for many chronic illnesses including oral diseases.
Based on evidence of effectiveness, the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) supports the role of the dentist in assisting dental patients interested in tobacco cessation. In provinces where regulations permit, the dentist may be able to prescribe medications to assist the patient in meeting this objective. In other provinces, referral to a physician may be appropriate.
CDA encourages dentists interested in undertaking this role to complete a related training program to enhance their potential to meet patient needs. It is the dentist's ethical obligation to ensure that patients are managed in a competent manner.
CDA Board of Directors
Approved: February 2005
Revised: July 2012
