Smoke Signals

Course Overview

This 2-hour continuing education course explores the clinical impact of tobacco, vaping, nicotine products, and cannabis on periodontal, peri-implant, and surgical outcomes. As new nicotine and cannabis products continue to change the risk profile of our patients, dental hygienists play a critical role in identifying oral signs, educating patients, and supporting behavior change.

Participants will review how smoking and nicotine alter inflammation, mask bleeding on probing, affect periodontal diagnosis and grading, impair wound healing, and increase the risk of tooth loss, peri-implantitis, and implant complications. The course will also discuss emerging concerns related to vaping, nicotine pouches, and cannabis use, including xerostomia, caries risk, altered anesthesia response, and surgical considerations.

Through evidence-based discussion, clinical examples, and practical chairside scripting, attendees will leave with tools they can immediately use to improve patient conversations, documentation, risk assessment, and referral for cessation support.

The evening is interactive, case-based, and open for discussion.