There’s no doubt that the popularity of vaping has risen significantly in recent years. Some vapers use it as an alternative to smoking tobacco, or to help them quit, while others appreciate vaping for its own merits. Whatever your reason for vaping, it’s important to recognize that it has an impact on your health just like traditional tobacco products, and that includes your oral health.
If you vape, the team at American Dental has some information for you about how this habit can affect your oral health:
Is Vaping Harmful to Your Teeth and Gums?
Because vapes are less harmful than traditional tobacco products, they are often marketed as a “healthy” alternative. In reality, there is no healthy way to inhale nicotine. Nicotine itself is known to be a carcinogen. Inhaling nicotine, whether in the form of tobacco smoke or vapor, can promote the growth of tumors in the lungs, stomach, pancreas, and breasts. And although the link has not been conclusively proven, some studies suggest that heavy vapers are at an increased risk of developing cancers of the mouth.
In addition, nicotine constricts the blood vessels, reducing blood flow all over the body. In terms of your oral health, this means that your teeth, gums, and bones will be more susceptible to health problems. With less oxygen and white blood cells being carried to the gum tissue, you will be more vulnerable to infections and will have a harder time healing from injuries to the mouth.
The naturally occurring bacteria that live in your mouth will have an easier time getting into your gum tissue and your bloodstream. The underlying bone tissue in your jaw could even be reduced in density, potentially causing your teeth to fall out. While it won’t happen overnight, all these symptoms are potential consequences of long-term nicotine consumption.
Oral health risks of long-term vape use include:
- Dry Mouth – The propylene glycol in vape liquid can cause dry mouth, potentially leading to tooth decay and other issues over time.
- Bad Breath – Nicotine and propylene glycol both reduce saliva production, making it more difficult to naturally remove bacteria that cause bad breath.
- Tooth Decay – Reduced saliva production and reduced blood flow to the gums can lead to tooth decay.
- Gum Recession or Inflammation – Reduced blood flow and lower saliva production can allow plaque to build up near the gumline, irritating the gums and causing them to recede.
- Canker Sores – Vaping causes damage to the lining of the mouth, which can cause sores in the mouth and throat.
Although we have focused on nicotine vapes up until this point, it is important to recognize that even nicotine-free vape liquid can be harmful to your health. Vape liquids can contain a range of chemicals including heavy metals and carcinogenic volatile organic compounds. While these may not necessarily affect your oral health, they can cause other health problems.
General Dentistry in Chicago
If you use any type of vape, we suggest you speak to your doctor and your dentist about all the effects it can have on your health. At American Dental, we will be happy to discuss the dangers of vaping with you at your next appointment. Get in touch with us to schedule an appointment at any of our 8 clinics located in the Chicago area.
We can assist you with cosmetic dentistry in Palos Heights, or with a range of other dental procedures and checkups anywhere else in the Chicago area.