The great stop begins again!

It’s also never too late to stop! Whether you have been smoking for 5 years or 50, putting down the lighter will benefit your body straightaway. Government resources demonstrate exactly what advantages you will experience from just 20 minutes after smoking your last cigarette! 

A timeline of health benefits 

It doesn’t take long for the health benefits to kick in! 

• 20 minutes after smoking

  Heart rate returns to normal 

• 8 hours after smoking

  Oxygen levels are recovering and carbon dioxide in your body has halved 

• 48 hours after smoking

  All carbon monoxide is out your system, your lungs are clearing mucus and your senses of taste and smell are improving 

• 72 hours after smoking

  Breathing feels easier and energy levels are increasing 

• 2-12 weeks after smoking

  Blood flow is improved to your heart and muscles 

• 3-9 months after smoking

  Your lungs are having to work 10% less, so you’re coughing and wheezing less too 

• 1 year after smoking

  Your risk of heart attack has halved 

• 10 years after smoking

  Your risk of death from lung cancer has halved 

• 15 years after smoking

  Your risk of heart attack is the same as a never-smoker! 

Another reason to smile 

In addition to enhancing heart, lung and general body health, smoking cessation does wonders for your oral health too. These include: 

• Reduced risk of tooth loss 

• Lower chance of severe gum disease 

• Decreased risk of mouth cancer 

• Reduced risk of bad breath (or halitosis) 

• Less staining/yellowing of the teeth 

• Faster recovery/healing from any dental treatment needed 

Top tips for a successful Stoptober  

Stopping smoking is no easy feat. It takes will-power, determination and support. But it is possible – for everyone! Here are some options to try that could make the process that little bit more achievable for you: 

• Nicotine gum or patches 

• Increase/introduce exercise  

• Take up a hobby that involves doing something with your hands 

• Have some healthy snacks to hand avoid reaching for sugary alternatives 

• Download the NHS Quit Smoking app for daily tips and encouragement 

• Avoid places, people or activities that you previously associated with smoking  

• Keep a record of how well you’re doing 

• Track how much money you’re saving with each day you smoke less 

• Join a dedicated social media group for additional support 

• Use the Smokefree helpline: 0300 123 1044 

• Don’t worry if you relapse – just focus on how to avoid the next one 

You can also always speak to your local Rodericks Dental Partners practice team for advice or support on improving your oral health. They can discuss options to treat tooth staining, giving you a whiter, brighter smile that will help motivate you to stay away from the cigarettes. They can also offer cessation advice or signpost you to more useful resources. Find your local Rodericks Dental Partners practice here.