Tobacco smoking is well known as one of the most important risk factors for periodontal disease development and progression so it is of little surprise that attention is now being focused on the potential effects of e-cigarettes on periodontal health.
The increasing popularity of vaping (inhaled vapour produced by nicotine delivery systems, including e-cigarettes) poses questions around the associated oral health and wider health implications, which we explore in our latest article and ask “is vaping harmful to oral health?”
Does vaping stain your teeth?
The impact of traditional cigarettes and tobacco smoking on the teeth is well understood. Cigarettes and cigars contain relatively high levels of tar. The tar can quickly result in tooth discolouration. While vaping removes the presence of tar from the equation, the artificial flavourings and the sticky aerosol in vape liquids can also worsen the appearance of your teeth as they trap stains in the enamel. The staining of both teeth and tooth-coloured fillings can occur from vapes with no nicotine content as much as those with nicotine.
Vaping and dental health
E-cigarettes contain 3 main ingredients – a carrier solution (propylene glycol and or vegetable glycerin), nicotine (some e-cigarettes are nicotine-free), and flavourings. The nicotine vapour is less harmful than cigarettes. However, smoking or vaping affects the microbiome in our mouths, making users more prone to inflammation and infection. Changes in the microbial community contribute to various oral health issues, including cavities, gum disease, halitosis and medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancers.
Hidden dangers
Vaping liquids, even those without nicotine, can dehydrate your mouth. Saliva plays a crucial role in washing away food particles, neutralising acids, and protecting against bacteria. Reduced saliva flow due to vaping can lead to:
- Increased risk of cavities: Without adequate saliva to wash away sugar and neutralise acids, bacteria thrive, leading to tooth decay.
- Bad breath: Dry mouth can contribute to bad breath (halitosis).
- Increased risk of thrush: A fungal infection in the mouth that thrives in a dry environment.
- Gum Disease: Vaping may irritate and inflame gum tissue. This can lead to gingivitis (early gum disease) and, if left untreated, periodontitis (severe gum disease) with potential tooth loss.
Are there any other ways that vaping can damage teeth?
Nicotine is a stimulant and can promote tooth grinding. Tooth grinding slowly wears away tooth enamel and this makes your teeth more susceptible to chips, cracks and cavities.
Is there any way to minimise the side effects?
If you vape, it’s important to look after your teeth. The following may help reduce your risk for side effects:
- Limit your nicotine intake. Opting for low-nicotine or nicotine-free juices can help limit the negative effects of nicotine on your teeth and gums.
- Drink water after you vape. Avoid dry mouth and bad breath by rehydrating after you vape.
- Brush your teeth twice a day. Brushing helps remove plaque, which helps prevent cavities and promotes overall gum health.
- Floss before bed. Like brushing, flossing helps remove plaque and promotes gum health.
- Visit a dentist on a regular basis. If you can, see a dentist every six months for a cleaning and consultation. Maintaining a regular cleaning schedule will aid in the early detection and treatment of any underlying conditions.
Summary
An England evidence update on nicotine vaping in 2022 did show that whilst vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking, it is not harmless. Evidence linking vaping devices to poor oral health outcomes is currently developing and the long-term health effects are still being determined. Meant only as a tool to quit smoking, anecdotal evidence suggests an increasing number of younger people are taking up vaping without a history of smoking.
For further information about your oral health, please contact us here.
