The Impact of Vaping on Oral Health

Electronic cigarettes, also called vape pens, JUULS, and pods, heat a liquid-based flavoring into an aerosol for inhalation using an electric element. The harmful adverse effects of nicotine, related substances, and additives continue to be studied. The effects on dental and oral health have been questioned as e-cigarettes and vaping have become a growing trend. According to the 2020 National Youth Tobacco Survey, 3.6 million young people currently use e-cigarettes, with the usage of disposable devices growing alarmingly. A family dental care in Summit, IL, can help treat dental and oral issues caused by vaping and e-cigarettes. 

The impact of vaping on oral health

Vaping has an impact on the oral cavity by decreasing blood vessels that nourish the gingiva, masking gum disease by reducing bleeding during probing due to blood flow loss, compromising saliva production, which contributes to bad breath, increasing bruxism through increased masticatory muscle stimulation, and increasing the possibility of tooth decay.

Mentioned below are some of the common effects of vaping on your dental and oral health.

• Increased risk of cavities

When food particles from inadequate brushing or flossing remain in the mouth, germs may develop and cause dental cavities. After eating, these bacteria generate acid that destroys teeth and causes cavities. Some flavored vapors have effects that are similar to those of acidic beverages and are very sweet, which increases the risk of cavities.

• Higher risk of gum disease

Furthermore, vaping increases your risk of gum disease. According to a study published in iScience, 42.5% of vapers and 72.5% of tobacco users had gum disease. Only 28.2% of nonsmokers, however, had periodontal disease symptoms. As a result, vaping does increase the risk of periodontal disease even if the chances of gum disease are lower than they are while smoking.

• Dry mouth

More cavities can occur from the dry mouth since it makes it easier for germs to stick to teeth. Oral dryness may be brought on by the elements in some liquids used in e-cigarettes. A dry mouth can result in foul breath, mouth sores, and an increased risk of cavities.

• Physical damage

E-cigarette use may end up in injuries to the mouth. E-cigarette mouthpiece temperatures can reach the point where they can burn the mouth within as well as externally. 

Explosions of the e-cigarettes while in use are another serious issue. These explosions can result in oral damage and severe burns that need urgent medical attention and surgery.