Vaping & Its Effects on Your Oral Health

It's not news that unhealthy habits have a destructive effect on both our mental and physical health. But, there are instances where we continue doing something even though we know it's harming us. Such is the case of smoking. 

Many people are aware of the harmful effects of smoking. It is well known that the toxins in cigarettes can lead to lung, heart, and oral diseases. For these reasons, some people have switched to vaping. 

But is it truly a better alternative? What are the effects of vaping on your oral health? 

Let's discuss. 
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How Vaping Can Affect Your Oral Health

Electric cigarettes use electricity to heat a liquid with different flavors to create aerosols. This liquid is based on propylene glycol, glycerine, various flavors, water, and nicotine. The vaping machine creates a vapor (aerosol) that is inhaled. This vapor is made up of several chemicals that studies have shown to increase the chances of developing cancer, respiratory disease, and heart disease.

• Nicotine 

Although the amount of nicotine in vapers is quite small, its effects are still felt. It has a great influence on your blood flow, and therefore on your oral tissue and gums. It also decreases the number of cells in the connective tissue and these aspects can increase the chances of gum disease and tooth loss.

•  Propylene glycol (PG) 

Propylene glycol is a synthetic food additive found in a variety of processed foods and drinks. It has a thick consistency and gives the vapors a slightly sweet taste. 

However, studies have found that the e-cigarettes that use PG may cause lung inflammation in the long term. Moreover, it can also affect the soft tissue in your mouth and affect the enamel, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. 
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Oral Diseases Caused By Vaping

• Xerostomia

Also known as dry mouth, it is one of the most common diseases caused by vaping and smoking in general. It develops due to the chemicals found in the fluid of the vaping device that make the immune system work harder. Xerostomia also favors the development of cavities.

• Gum Inflammation

This condition is also called "cottonmouth" and is caused by the effect that chemicals in the smoke have on the gums. They dehydrate the gums, increasing your chances of developing plaque. The bacteria in plaque feed on the tissues of the gums, causing a burning sensation. 

• Cell Death

When the vapor comes into contact with the mouth, it slows down the cells' ability to regenerate. That, in turn, slows down the repair of tissue damage. This causes premature aging of the gums and consequently tooth loss.

Apart from oral diseases, smoking and vaping also cause other diseases that can worsen your physical and mental state. 
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Get Professional Dental Treatment from Pearl Dental Studio

If you are a smoker or a caper, you need to take even better care of your oral health to ensure these habits don't affect it that much. At Pearl Dental Studio, you can find a team of professionals ready and eager to help you. 

For any concerns related to your oral health, don't hesitate to contact us.