Disastrous effects of vaping on teeth and gums Though medical practitioners and dentists constantly remind about the hazards of smoking, many peoples smoke still today. While many countries around the world have made smoking illegal, people are still preferring a life filled with nicotine. To quit traditional smoking, E-cigarettes, one kind of vaping is introduced to help adults as they don’t contain tobacco. But they contain nicotine again. Maybe vaping is less harmful than smoking for your physical health, but this is not applicable to your dental health. Here are some reasons vaping is not good for your overall oral health.
1) Receding gums While vaping, the nicotine reduces the flow of blood which in turn damages your teeth and gums. If there is no enough blood flow through veins, your gums fail to get the proper nutrients and oxygen they require to keep gums healthy. Death of gum tissues may occur due to this and result in gum recession. Problems like increased risk of tooth decay, loss of teeth, and tooth sensitivity may occur if the gums are receded severely.
2) Bacteria, Dry mouth & tooth decay Vaping reduces the secretion of saliva in your mouth. If there is no saliva in your mouth, it will lead to dry mouth, increase in bacteria, tooth decay, and buildup of plaque.
3) Tooth damage and Bruxism Nicotine when inhaled through vaping acts as a muscle stimulant. This causes bruxism (grinding of teeth) or worsens your problem if you have already this problem. Grinding or clenching your teeth often leads to damage of the tooth and other dental health complications.
4) Vaping & gum disease Research says vaping increases your chance of getting gum disease. Swelling and gum inflammation can be caused by vaping due to nicotine. Swollen gums associated with increased bacteria and dry mouth are a formula for gum disease.
● ● ● ● ● ●
Watch for the following symptoms of gum disease if you vape regularly: Halitosis (Bad breath) Irritated, Red, or bleeding gums Loss of teeth Wiggly teeth Swollen or tender gums Receding gums
Even though E-cigarettes do not contain tobacco, vaping causes various health problems similar to smoking. This involves risks to your teeth, mouth, and body. It is a misunderstanding to assume that e-cigarettes are healthier than cigarettes containing tobacco, or that vaping is not bad for your teeth. Follow good dental hygiene practices and have regular dental checkups to stay top of your oral health if you are a vaper or smoker.
Dr. Suresh