Tobacco use is the single, leading cause of preventable death in the United States. In California alone, tobacco use kills over 35,000 people each year—more than any other state. 

Dental professionals are well-positioned to reduce tobacco use among their patients. All members of the dental team should be involved in providing tobacco-cessation interventions in clinical practice. Dental professionals can support local and state policies aimed at reducing the burden of tobacco-related illness in California. Together, we can make a difference.

Despite its capacity, the dental profession falls behind other health professions in providing tobacco-dependence treatment. As part of the California Oral Health Technical Assistance Center, our team works with local health departments and dental professional associations to bring evidence-based tobacco treatment support to dental settings. 

We offer resources and training materials to help dental professionals provide the best possible care to their patients, including: