Over the last several years, vaping has become a hot trend to help smokers put down cigarettes for good. Although many people believe it to be a safer alternative to smoking tobacco, the health effects are recently coming into the light. While the media is covering the effects that it can have on your lungs, your dentist in Putman is seeing other complications caused by e-cigs. Contrary to what you may have heard, vaping can harm your teeth and gums.
Is Vaping Bad for My Smile?
Vaping has become a preferred choice for smoking because it doesn’t produce tobacco smoke. Instead, it uses aerosol or vapor to deliver nicotine to the lungs. Despite what you may have heard, aerosol produced by e-cigs isn’t harmless water vapor. The ultra-fine particles contain toxic chemicals and heavy metals that are bad for the body. In fact, many of them are linked to respiratory disease, heart disease, and even cancer.
Unfortunately, the complications don’t end there. Research also shows vaping can be equally damaging to your oral health. E-cigs still contain nicotine, which is bad for your teeth, gums, and overall dental wellness.
What are the Oral Health Complications of Vaping?
Vaping can have several adverse complications on your smile, such as:
- Receding Gums: Nicotine reduces blood flow, which can starve your gums of the oxygen and nutrients they need. This can damage your tissue, leading to gum recession.
- Tooth Sensitivity: The complications of nicotine increase your risk of tooth sensitivity caused by gum recession and tooth decay.
- Dry Mouth: Nicotine reduces saliva production, which can lead to dry mouth. This allows harmful bacteria to grow, increasing the likeliness of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
- Bruxism: Nicotine acts as a muscle stimulant, which can cause you to grind or clench your teeth. Not only can this lead to jaw pain but also uneven wear on your enamel. Over time, you may experience chipped or broken teeth. In some cases, your teeth can loosen and fall out.
- Gum Disease: Nicotine causes inflammation and swelling. When you combine the swollen tissue with added bacteria caused by dry mouth, it’s the perfect recipe for gum disease.
Can a Dentist Near Me Protect My Smile?
If you can’t kick the habit, it’s important to stay on top of your oral hygiene to protect your smile from the complications of vaping. Besides brushing and flossing your teeth at home, visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. They will monitor your oral health to detect any concerning areas sooner.
About Dr. Carolyn & Walter McGinn
Dr. Carolyn & Walter McGinn are committed to helping our patients reach and maintain optimal oral health. Supported by years of combined experience and qualifications, they can treat even the most complex oral health issues. Whether you’re trying to save your smile from the complications of vaping, or you need to reverse the damage it has caused, they offer the solutions you need. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.