Vaping negatively impacts your teeth and your overall health. While it seems to be less risky than actual cigarettes, it has a significant impact on your oral health. Because vaping is still a new phenomenon, the long-term effects are unclear. However, the effects on your oral and overall health are well documented. Let’s look at if vaping is bad for your teeth as well.
Vaping and Oral Health Problems
Below you will find the most common negative impacts vaping has on your teeth.
- Dry Mouth: Certain vapes have ingredients that can cause dry mouth. The base liquids that include propylene glycol are most impactful in terms of dry mouth. Dry mouth is also associated with bad breath, mouth sores, and tooth decay.
- Inflamed Gums: Research has shown that certain vapes trigger an inflammatory response in the gums. Inflamed gums are associated with gum disease and tooth decay. They can also be very painful if not treated properly.
- Bacteria: Research has also shown that teeth that are exposed to vape aerosol had more bacteria, specifically in the pits and crevices of teeth. This is also associated with tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease.
- Irritation: Vaping can irritate your gums, mouth, and cause oral sensitivities.
Vaping and DNA
Research has shown via studies of live cells from human gums that vaping can damage your DNA and increase inflammation. This can cause cells to lose their ability to divide and grow, which can speed up cell aging and even result in cell death. In addition to the risks of gum disease, tooth loss, bad breath, and decay, vaping can also lead to bone and tooth loss. While this is only preliminary research, the results are telling.
Vaping vs. Smoking
Many regular nicotine smokers have turned to vaping as it has been touted as a healthier alternative. Preliminary research has suggested that are similar health risks for vaping as compared to cigarettes. Just like cigarettes, vaping can cause lung disease. And the long-term effects are still unclear.
Vaping is often thought of as healthier because it is vapor rather than smoke. However, the vapor contains nicotine and particles made of toxic chemicals and heavy metals. These are linked to cancer, respiratory disease, and heart disease. Use caution when using vaping as an alternative to smoking.
Is Vaping Safe?
It’s important to note that there are long term health effects of using vapes. Due to major health issues that have arisen in the last couple of years, federal and state health agencies have begun investigations on vaping. One of the most common adverse health impacts is severe lung disease. If possible, it is best to stop using vapes and nicotine altogether.
Preventative Measures
If you continue to vape, taking as many preventative precautions as possible is necessary to combat the damage vaping can cause. At a minimum, brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush. It is necessary to floss at least once a day and use mouthwash with fluoride. Visit the dentist every six months or sooner based on your dentist’s recommendations. Gum disease can be serious for your oral health and overall health, so taking proactive steps to combat the vaping damage is essential.
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