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A new survey suggests even smokers themselves prefer dating partners who don't smoke.

Almost four in every five male smokers would much rather date a non-smoker, and the figure for women is even higher at 87 per cent.

Nicabate, which commissioned the survey ahead of World No Tobacco Day on Monday suggests that it's a good reason to quit smoking.

This year, the World Health Organisation will use the day to highlight the negative aspects of smoking particularly for women.

Nicabate's survey showed that 80 per cent of smokers don't believe cigarettes damage the skin, despite strong research to the contrary.

More than two-thirds of Australians say smoking is a turn-off, according to the survey of 1000 people.

Staff and patients at The Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne are using World No Tobacco Day to warn of the link between smoking and the gum disease periodontitis, which can cause teeth to become loose and fall out.

The bacterial infection is caused by a build-up of plaque on the tooth root below the gum line and is hard to diagnose until it is at an advanced stage, the hospital says.

Periodontist Dr Julie Fraser said smoking appeared to create an environment in the mouth conducive to bacterial growth.

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant says smokers should also think of their financial wellbeing in making the decision to quit.

Based on the average cost of a packet of cigarettes, a pack-a-day smoker could save a significant amount of money and see immediate health benefits and positive lifestyle changes, Dr Chant said.

Addiction