Did you know that regular vaping can harm your mouth, throat, teeth, and gums? There is growing evidence that vaping negatively impacts oral health. Whether you use e-cigarettes with or without nicotine, the risks are significant.
Oral Health Risks of Vaping
It’s not just tobacco smoking that can harm your teeth. Vaping, too, poses significant risks to oral health. When vape juice is heated, it can harm your enamel and irritate your gums. Plus, the thick, sticky nature of vape ingredients can increase the likelihood of tooth decay and gum disease. Be aware and take steps to protect your smile.
What’s in Vape Juice?
Vape juice often contains propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerine (VG). While these are common food additives, vaping them can have harmful effects. PG breaks down into acid, which can erode tooth enamel and promote plaque buildup and harmful bacteria. VG combined with sweetened flavors can make it easier for bacteria to stick to teeth and soft tissues, softening enamel in the process.
Dry Mouth and Other Issues
One common side effect of vaping is dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath and more severe oral health issues. When you vape, it reduces the production of saliva in your mouth. Saliva is crucial for protecting your teeth because it helps wash away food particles and bacteria. With less saliva, your mouth becomes more susceptible to harmful bacteria that can cause tooth decay. Stay informed and take care of your dental health by being aware of the hidden impacts of vaping.
The risks are even higher if vapers opt for sweetened drinks like flavored milks, energy drinks, and soft drinks instead of water to combat dry mouth. These beverages provide a greater food source for bacteria, worsening the problem.
Discolored Teeth and Long-Term Effects
Vaping could also lead to tooth discoloration. Young people, in particular, should be aware of the risks vaping poses to their oral health. Healthy teeth are essential not only for eating, smiling, and speaking but also for self-esteem.
What You Can Do
If you smoke or vape, it’s vital to visit your dentist regularly for oral health and mouth cancer checks. Dentists can provide tailored advice and care to help mitigate some of the risks associated with vaping.
For information and support on how to quit smoking or vaping,
Call a Quit Line to talk with trained quit coaches at 1-800-QUIT-NOW. You can also visit the CDC website for resources on quitting smoking or vaping.
Stay informed and take steps to protect your oral health today.