Ewan Bramley agrees it could have a profound affect!

This month sees the introduction of a new law that could have a massive affect on our young people’s oral health and Ewan Bramley Dental Care, a leading private dentist, believes it’s a move in the right direction.

From last Thursday 1 October smoking in any vehicle with anyone under the age of 18 present was outlawed in England and Wales and could see a dramatic decline in illnesses associated with lighting up behind the wheel.

It won’t come as a massive shock to the public but passive smoking puts our kids at a far larger risk from things like oral health development and tooth decay.

Ewan Bramley has backed the Government’s stance on the issue and thinks it could have a positive and bold impact in keeping our children safe from inhaling the smoke of drivers when they get from A to B.

He said: “Driving someone in the presence of damaging fumes and chemicals – especially children – is really dangerous,” explains Ewan.

“Research out there tells us that just one cigarette smoked in a vehicle when the windows are closed can produce severely high levels of secondary smoke and is far worse than say smoking in the pub. If someone’s dental health is still evolving, like a child’s, this can produce a grave problem.

“Passive smoking is a known killer and can also cause tooth loss and gum disease. So this news is extremely positive and can only be a good thing for young people’s oral and overall health.”

Don’t be tempted to light up! Your child’s health depends on it!

The new law comes after a huge public backing. A YouGov poll found that almost 80% of UK adults thought smoking should be stamped out in cars that are carrying people 18 years old and below.

Under the new law, both the driver and smoker will be faced with an on the spot fine of £50.

So, can smoking impact on my overall oral health?

Most of us realise that smoking isn’t a good idea for our health. Why? It leads to medical issues and fatal diseases. But the area, which we often forget to take into account, is the affect it has on our teeth, gums and mouths.

Why do my teeth get stained?

Nicotine and the tar that resides in tobacco is a direct cause of staining the teeth when you smoke. It turns teeth yellow in an extremely short time frame and can after many years turn them completely brown. Not a pretty sight people!

How will cigarette smoke affect my teeth and gums?

Gum disease can occur as a result of gum disease. Those who smoke are very likely to produce plague, which in turn leads to disease of the gums. Smoking can cause a reduction in oxygen in the bloodstream and the infected gums can’t heal as a result. Gum disease is still the most likely cause of tooth loss among adults.

What do you think about the new law to protect our children’s dental and oral health? Leave us a comment and give this article a share on your social media!