Many people use e-cigarettes because they believe vaping is less harmful than smoking cigarettes. Unfortunately, vaping can harm your oral health. Here's why vaping can be bad for your oral health and your overall wellness.
Why is vaping bad for my teeth?
Below are 4 reasons why vaping is bad for your oral health:
1. Propylene glycol
E-cigarettes emit an aerosol that is sometimes mistaken for harmless water vapor when in fact, they contain a product called propylene glycol. Propylene glycol contains acetic acid, lactic acid, and propionaldehyde. These ingredients are harmful to tooth enamel and the soft tissues of the mouth. The result may be "dry mouth" which is a condition that can increase your chance of gum disease, cavities and other oral health problems.
2. Nicotine
Nicotine harms your oral health by restricting the flow of blood to your gums and soft tissues. This can lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
3. Vegetable glycerin
E-cigarettes contain vegetable glycerin and flavorings. Studies have shown that the vegetable glycerin and flavorings in e-cigs can affect the hardness of tooth enamel and increase the level of cavity-causing bacteria.
4. Lithium batteries
On rare occasions, lithium batteries in e-cigarettes and vape pens have overheated and exploded. Faulty batteries can lead to severe burns and damage to the mouth, teeth and gums.
Why does vaping make my teeth hurt?
Nicotine restricts the flow of blood to the teeth and gums. As a result, the gums do not receive enough oxygen. This can result in tooth sensitivity and receding gums.
Does vaping stain your teeth like cigarettes?
Although e-cigarettes do not contain tar, they do contain nicotine, which can stain your teeth. Also, nicotine sticks to tooth enamel. This creates a rough surface causing plaque to build up.
Currently, there is minimal FDA regulation of e-cigarettes and few standards concerning the level of contaminants and carcinogens contained within the devices.
Recently, there's been an outbreak of lung injuries associated with vaping. If you vape, consider quitting to protect your oral health. Talk with your dentist about a smoking cessation method that would work best for you.
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