Let’s Discuss

Vaping is increasing in popularity but do we know enough to make an informed decision? Vapes or E-cigarettes are battery-powered smoking devices. They have cartridges filled with a liquid that usually contains nicotine, flavorings, and chemicals. The liquid is heated into a vapor, which the person inhales. That's why using e-cigarettes is called ‘vaping.’

First things first… vaping is still fairly new so research on the effects of vaping is still ongoing and can change. Whilst it does appear to have fewer oral health risks than smoking cigarettes, health experts are already reporting serious lung damage in people who vape.

What Paramount Dental Sydney does know is that vaping can irritate and cause damage to the lungs plus it puts nicotine into the body which is highly addictive and can:

slow brain development in youth
affect memory, concentration and mood
increase the risk of other addictions

How does vaping affect your teeth and gums?

Research to date indicates that vaping can have a variety of negative effects on your teeth and gums, such as:

Excess bacteria: It’s been found that when teeth have been exposed to vaping they have more bacteria than those that haven't. This bacteria was particularly prevalent in the spaces between teeth. As we know, excess bacteria can cause tooth decay, cavities and gum disease.
Dry mouth: Vaping liquids, particularly propylene glycol, can cause mouth dryness which in turn can cause bad breath, tooth decay and ulcers.
Sore and inflamed gums: Research has shown vaping can trigger inflammation in gum tissue which is often a catalyst for periodontal diseases.
General irritation: It’s been reported that vaping can cause mouth, throat irritation and gum symptoms like tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Possibly most troubling is that cell death can occur as a result of vaping which ultimately can play a role in the following:

periodontal diseases
bone loss
tooth loss
Bad breath
Tooth decay

If you have turned to vaping, keep doing your research to ensure you’re making the best decisions for your overall health. Replacing one bad habit with another is generally not the best solution so perhaps look into tips that will help you ditch both.