Vaping, or the use of e-cigarettes, is becoming a widespread practice, especially among people trying to quit smoking. The technique works by heating a liquid that generates an aerosol for the user to inhale. This aerosol comprises glycerin, flavor, nicotine, and glycol. While vaping presents a friendlier thought than actual smoking, it could be harming your teeth. among the effects of vaping include dry mouth and gum disease.
Dry Mouth
Nicotine and glycol present in E-cigarettes reduce the production of saliva by salivary glands causing mouth dryness. When saliva stops flowing in your mouth, your risk of cavities will increase. This is because saliva flushes out the cavity-causing bacteria and food debris from the mouth, preventing accumulation. As a cleansing agent, saliva also removes plaques from teeth. If left to accumulate, plaque will harden and cause bad breath. Finally, saliva neutralizes mouth acidity and slows down the cavity-causing bacteria’s activity to prevent tooth decay.
Tooth Sensitivity
Nicotine is a muscle stimulant and inhaling it in large proportions will stimulate unwanted muscle contractions. If these contractions occur on your jaws, you will suffer bruxism. Teeth grinding, if untreated, will flatten your chewing surfaces, and grinding your front teeth will result in a gummy smile. Teeth grinding also destroys the teeth’ enamel resulting in tooth sensitivity to temperature. Besides the above side effects, the vapor from E-cigarettes will also irritate your gums and cause inflammation. If untreated, this inflammation will result in tooth loss.
Given the grave concerns of vaping, it is necessary to care for your teeth or quit this practice if possible, to prevent loss. Among the things you can do to keep your teeth healthy include regular brushing using the right technique and fluoride toothpaste. You should also maintain routine checkups for dental exams and cleanings. For more details on vaping and oral health, contact our office today.