The Effects of Vaping on Oral Health
Source: Dr. Marketing
Vaping is becoming increasingly popular, especially with young adults, and is marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, but evidence suggests that it is far from harmless. Although vaping eliminates tar and some harmful byproducts present in smoking, it is known to disrupt your mouth’s natural defenses, dry out oral tissues, alter the microbiome, and accelerate gum disease.
While vaping may harm your oral health through different mechanisms than those related to smoking, both carry significant risks for your smile. Throughout this article, we will address the impact of vaping on your oral health and how to maintain your hygiene as a vaper.
How Vaping Impacts Your Mouth
One of the most common symptoms of vaping is known as dry mouth, which occurs when the propylene glycol and glycerin in vape liquids reduce your saliva production. However, what most people don’t realize is that saliva plays a key role in neutralizing acids and cleaning teeth. This lack of saliva production correlates directly with an increased risk of cavities and bad breath.
Vaping is known to alter the bacteria in your mouth, leaving vapers more susceptible to higher levels of dangerous bacteria, such as Fusobacterium and Bacteroidales, which are associated with gum disease. Evidence has continued to link vaping to worsening gum health, impacting pocket formation, attachment loss, and inflammation. Although the impact may not be as severe as that related to smoking, it is still significantly more than that of non-vapers.
In addition to limiting the production of saliva, vaping has also been shown to reduce the antibacterial properties in saliva, directly impairing oral defenses and increasing your vulnerability to infection. Other common issues stemming from vaping include mouth and throat irritation, gum recession, and mucosal lesions. Your immune response may also be disrupted, leading to greater vulnerability.
Common Oral Health Issues Linked to Vaping
Vaping e-cigarettes is harmful in various respects, including the nicotine and chemical exposure present in the vapor. Nicotine restricts blood flow, limiting circulation to the gums, and increases the risk of gum disease. Vapor also contains aldehydes, heavy metals, and other toxins that are known to damage tissues and DNA. Other potential oral health issues faced by vapers include:
Tips for Prevention
The best way to limit yourself to the health risks of vaping is to quit; however, depending on your level of use, it may be helpful to seek help from a medical professional. However, if you are not yet ready to kick the habit, there are a few things you can do to improve your oral health generally. Drink water and use sugar-free gum to help retain moisture and reduce your risk of decay. Brush, floss, and clean your tongue twice a day to control bacteria. Additionally, schedule biannual checkups with your dentist. Dentists can detect early signs of dry mouth, mucosal changes, and bacterial imbalances.
Here at Stillwater Family Dental, we would be happy to schedule a consultation with you to assess your oral health and address any concerns you may have regarding the use of e-cigarettes. Lastly, it is essential to remember that all your health information is private, and you should not be afraid to discuss the impact of your habits with a medical professional.
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