How Can Using E-Cigarettes Affect My Oral Health?

Everyone knows that smoking is detrimental to your oral health, significantly increasing the risk of oral cancer, periodontal (gum) disease, bad breath, and even tooth staining and discoloration. So, is vaping any better? Research shows that vaping may be just as bad as smoking cigarettes. Here’s all you need to know about this harmful habit and its impact on the health of your smile.

What Is Vaping?

Vaping involves the use of a device called an e-cigarette to heat a liquid that releases vapor or an aerosol the user inhales. E-liquids usually contain glycerin, nicotine, propylene glycol, flavorings, and water.

Users are often under the assumption that the aerosol is a harmless vapor which can’t be further from the truth. Aside from nicotine, the so-called harmless aerosol contains ultra-fine particles of heavy metals and toxic chemicals. Moreover, e-cigarettes sometimes release formaldehyde when heated using high-voltage batteries. 

How Does Vaping Impact Your Oral Health?

Nicotine acts as a muscle stimulant, increasing the risk of teeth grinding, a condition called bruxism. That leads to tooth wear and a host of oral health complications. It also causes bad breath and tooth discoloration, interferes with blood flow to the gums, decreases tissue turnover, and increases the severity of periodontal (gum) disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Other ingredients of e-liquids which can harm your oral health include the following:

• Propylene breaks down into acids that erode and damage the tooth enamel.
• Propionaldehyde irritates the soft tissues and increases the risk of dry mouth (xerostomia), leading to bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.
• Vegetable glycerin is a sticky liquid sweetener that clings to the grooves and crevices on the chewing surfaces of the teeth, allowing harmful bacteria to flourish.

Maintaining a Healthy Smile

We, at High Street Dentistry in Jefferson City, MO, urge our valued patients to refrain from vaping. However, if you vape, we encourage you to maintain meticulous oral hygiene practices and to keep up with your routine dental care. Our team will ensure we treat any problems as they develop to keep your smile healthy and sound.

Quality Dental Care Near Me

Visit High Street Dentistry in Jefferson City, MO, to learn more about maintaining a clean and healthy smile. You can always count on our team for outstanding care and service. Call us and schedule your appointment today!