Ecigarettes have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among young adults and teenagers. The use of e-cigarettes, also known as vaping, is often seen as a safer alternative to smoking tobacco cigarettes. While this may be the case, there is mounting evidence to suggest that vaping poses significant risks to oral health. Below, Dr Chris Ford, General Dentist at Northumberland Dental Care in Ballsbridge, discusses the harmful effects that vaping may have on oral health.
Nicotine harms your oral health
E-cigarettes are handheld battery powered vaporisers and most contain a liquid mixture of nicotine, flavourings and other chemicals. When heated, the liquid turns into an aerosol, which is then inhaled. Nicotine reduces blood flow in the gums and changes the balance of bacteria in the mouth (the oral microbiome), which can cause gum disease and tooth decay.
Nicotine can also cause yellow staining on your teeth. While this type of staining is usually associated with tobacco cigarettes, e-cigarettes can also do this. If you wish to keep your smile pearly white, it is best to avoid vaping.
Vaping can lead to dry mouth
Saliva is crucial for a healthy mouth. It buffers acids and provides a reservoir of minerals to remineralise your teeth. Vaping can cause drying of the mouth and a dry mouth can lead to a host of oral health problems, particularly inflammation of the gums and increased risk of tooth decay.
Vaping is not a healthy habit
While we are only beginning to learn about the adverse effects of vaping for your oral health, it is becoming evident that vaping is not as safe as we may have initially assumed. However, e-cigarettes are certainly less ‘bad’ for your oral health than tobacco cigarettes. E-cigarettes are an effective way to help stop smoking cigarettes, and should be used only long enough to prevent a return to smoking, as they still have harmful effects. The long term impact of vaping on oral health is not known.
If you do vape, it’s important to take extra care of your oral health. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water, keep up a good oral health routine, visit your dentist regularly, and do consider cutting back or quitting altogether; your mouth will thank you for it!
