Vaping and Oral Health: What You Need to Know

More than 5.6 million people in Great Britain are thought to be using e-cigarettes, also known as vapes, according to the public health charity Ash as of 2024. Among vapers, one in ten are also thought to be high schoolers between the ages of 11 and 15, despite it being illegal in the UK for people under the age of 18 to purchase nicotine products.

While vaping is often touted as a replacement for cigarettes and marketed as potentially less harmful to humans than the toxic chemicals inhaled when smoking, vaping isn’t risk-free. The CDC admitted that scientists still have a lot to learn about vaping, but higher nicotine levels and fewer restrictions on where such products can be used may be encouraging more addiction.

Then there are risks like “popcorn lung” and other concerning health issues like impacts to brain development that suggest vaping should be seen as a means to quitting entirely, rather than a long-term solution. But what about dental impacts, and what vaping does to your teeth? Unsurprisingly, your teeth may also bear the brunt of inhaling nicotine and chemicals through e-cigarettes.

Here’s what the experts have to say.

Does Vaping Damage Your Teeth?

Just like smoking regular cigarettes, vaping can damage your oral health too. According to Bupa UK, vaping can impact your teeth, gums, and overall mouth health in a number of ways. For instance, vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol, which are found in vape liquids, create a sticky substance that can affect the bacteria found in your mouth.

As a result of changes in bacteria or excessive bacterial growth, you may face several dental issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and dry mouth. What’s more, nicotine can also impact blood flow to your gums, which can also lead to negative long-term impacts on your teeth.

But there are also some more severe dental health issues associated with gum disease that health care professionals are concerned about, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. “Periodontitis is a severe infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth, ultimately leading to tooth mobility and loss,” Dr. Vijay, Dental Implant Expert and Founder of 21D, told The London Standard.

He added: “Emerging research has even revealed a strong link between chronic periodontal disease and an increased risk of dementia; the core issue often lies in the chronic inflammation and bacteria associated with poor periodontal health.” “What makes vaping particularly concerning is the uncertainty surrounding its long-term oral health effects,” Dr. Vijay continued. “The dental community is still in the early stages of understanding how these substances impact oral health over time; as such, the extent of the potential consequences remains unknown, making it difficult for dental professionals to provide comprehensive advice.”

Understanding the Risks of Vaping on Oral Health

The risks associated with vaping on oral health are not fully understood, and more research is needed to determine the long-term effects. However, it is clear that vaping can lead to a range of dental problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and dry mouth. Additionally, the nicotine in e-cigarettes can impact blood flow to the gums, leading to negative long-term impacts on teeth.

How to Maintain Oral Health

While there’s not necessarily enough research to give practical advice, orthodontists agree that the best way to reduce the oral health impacts of vaping is to stop altogether. However, that’s not always the easiest option, especially if vapers have become accustomed to high levels of nicotine.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), regular dental check-ups are the most effective way to detect issues early and mitigate long-term risks. While Bupa also said that you could consider switching to nicotine gum, flossing regularly, and making sure you drink enough water when you vape.

Dr. Vijay also added: “The impact of tooth loss extends far beyond aesthetics; it can lead to difficulties in chewing, speech problems, and decreased self-esteem. Maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking regular dental check-ups are essential to mitigate these risks.” “Prioritising your oral health is vital whether you smoke or vape, but be warned that the long-term implications of vaping on dental health are still being uncovered,” he said.

Prevention and Prevention Strategies

Preventing oral health problems associated with vaping requires a combination of good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups. This includes brushing teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist for check-ups and cleanings.

Additionally, quitting vaping altogether is the best way to prevent oral health problems. However, for those who are struggling to quit, there are resources available, such as nicotine replacement therapy and counseling.

Resources for Quitting Vaping

There are many resources available for those who want to quit vaping, including:

• Nicotine replacement therapy
• Counseling
• Support groups
• Hotlines

Conclusion

In conclusion, vaping can have serious impacts on oral health, including tooth decay, gum disease, and dry mouth. While more research is needed to fully understand the risks, it is clear that quitting vaping altogether is the best way to prevent oral health problems. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, and resources for quitting vaping can all help to mitigate the risks associated with vaping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about vaping and oral health:

Q: Is vaping bad for my teeth?

A: Yes, vaping can be bad for your teeth. The nicotine and other chemicals in e-cigarettes can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and dry mouth.

Q: How can I prevent oral health problems associated with vaping?

A: Preventing oral health problems associated with vaping requires a combination of good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups. This includes brushing teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist for check-ups and cleanings.

Q: Can I quit vaping?

A: Yes, you can quit vaping. There are many resources available to help you quit, including nicotine replacement therapy, counseling, support groups, and hotlines.

Q: What are the long-term implications of vaping on dental health?

A: The long-term implications of vaping on dental health are still being uncovered. However, it is clear that vaping can lead to a range of dental problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and dry mouth. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices can help to mitigate these risks.