A qualitative study of the knowledge that non-dental smoking cessation advisors working in East Sussex in 2019 have and communicate to their clients with regard to tobacco smoking and tooth loss

Background It is widely agreed that tobacco smoking has numerous consequences for the health of an individual. It is, therefore, imperative to encourage cessation. This project investigated whether or not smoking cessation advisors discussed with their clients the association between smoking and tooth loss.Aim To explore non-dental smoking cessation advisors’ knowledge base related to smoking tobacco and tooth loss and to learn whether or not they use it to educate their clients.Method A qualitative study methodology via semi-structured, face-to�face, audio-recorded interviews with 12 smoking cessation advisors was employed. The participants were purposively selected from local pharmacies that offered Stop Smoking Services (SSS) and via ‘One You East Sussex’ (OYES).ResultsSmoking cessation advisors had limited knowledge about the association between smoking and tooth loss and in turn provided limited information to their clients. However, all agreed that if clients had knowledge of this association, it might be a good motivator to encourage clients to stop smoking. ConclusionFurther studies are required to capture a broader range of knowledge and views from this under-examined group of practitioners. Information about tooth loss should be included in initial smoking cessation advisors training and current information should be available as part of their continuing education for more experienced smoking cessation advisors.