Everyone knows the dangers and risks of smoking traditional cigarettes. Endless studies have proved that this habit stains teeth and increases the likelihood of periodontal diseases and even oral cancer. But what about vaping? Advertised and touted to be much safer than smoking cigarettes, vaping is becoming more and more popular and common among people of ages, including teenagers. Although researcher are still trying to fully understand the impact of vaping, there are some strong indications already that it can harm your oral health. In this blog post from your family dentist in Goodlettsville, you’ll learn five ways that this habit can affect your smile.
More Bacteria
Most oral problems stem from harmful bacteria in the mouth. These include gum disease and tooth decay, to name just a couple. In a 2018 study, participants who vaped had significantly more bacterial growth in their mouths, particularly between teeth and around the gum line, than those who didn’t vape. This habit only allows bacteria to have more freedom to cause damaging, potentially painful issues down the road.
Dry Mouth
As a common ingredient in e-cigarette liquids, propylene glycol is known to cause dryness in the mouth, which at first glance may not seem serious. However, a dry mouth provides the ideal breeding ground for the bacteria that cause bad breath, mouth sores, and other unpleasant outcomes.
Inflammation
So far, a couple of studies suggest that vaping can trigger inflammation in the gums, which is a main symptom of gum disease, and irritation in the mouth and throat. As a result, your gums can become tender, swollen, and red in appearance and bleed easily when you brush or floss your teeth.
Cell Death
The aerosols in vaping can damage DNA in oral cells, which makes it much more difficult to divide and grow. Eventually, it may lead to accelerated cell aging and premature cell death. As a result, you can suffer bone loss, tooth loss, tooth decay, or gum disease. In one study, vaping with menthol proved to be particularly damaging to oral cells.
Discoloration
The nicotine in cigarettes has long been proven to cause brown stains on teeth. Vaping with e-juices containing nicotine likely also causes unsightly discoloration.
Although e-cigarettes may not be as dangerous to your health as traditional cigarettes, they can still impair your oral health and have lasting effects. If you do choose to vape, just as if you were to choose to smoke, avoid juices with nicotine and drink water after you vape. At minimum, be sure to maintain healthy oral habits like brushing and flossing daily and visiting your dentist in Goodlettsville twice per year for checkups and cleanings. That way, you can lessen the impact that this habit can have on your smile.
About Goodlettsville Smiles
At Goodlettsville Smiles, Dr. Deidra Harrison-McClain has served families with high quality dental services for several years now. After dental school, she completed a dental residency through the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry. In the practice, she and the rest of the team focus on helping patients avoid oral problems altogether through healthy oral habits and preventive care. To schedule an appointment with Dr. McClain, call (615) 859-0188 or click here.