What Is Vaping?
Vaping is just smoking what is called an e-cigarette. E-cigarettes use an aerosol, or vapor, to deliver nicotine into the lungs. The term vaping, rather than smoking, is used because the e-cigarette does not produce tobacco smoke—they produce an aerosol. Aerosol is often mistaken for water; however, vapor actually consists of many different substances. Many of these substances contain toxic chemicals, which have been linked to cancer, respiratory disease, and heart disease.
Is vaping a healthier option than smoking cigarettes?
People believe that e-cigarettes are a healthier option to a traditional cigarette because there is no tobacco, however that is false. E-cigarette’s are still delivering nicotine, which is damaging to your oral health in a various amount of ways.
What Oral Health Risks Are Associated With Vaping?
The nicotine is the problem just as in a traditional tobacco filled cigarette. Some oral health specific issues associated with nicotine are as follows:
- Nicotine reduces the amount of blood that can flow through your veins. Without sufficient blood flow, your gums don’t get the oxygen and nutrients they need to stay healthy. Nicotine will block out tissues in the mouth from the blood it needs to survive, causing the death of gum tissues; this will eventually lead to gum recession.
- Nicotine prevents your body from producing saliva. Not enough saliva leads to bacteria buildup, dry mouth, bad breath, and tooth decay.
- If you already grind your teeth which is called bruxism, nicotine will make it can make it worse. If you do not suffer from bruxism currently, you may begin to if you begin using e-cigarettes. Bruxism is a condition in which you regularly grind, or clench your teeth. Bruxism can lead to other dental concerns such as TMD which is called Temporomandibular Disorder.
- Since vaping introduces nicotine into your body just like smoking tobacco, it does increase your risk for gum disease. Common symptoms of gum disease include:
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- Ongoing bad breath (halitosis)
- Red, irritated, or bleeding gums
- Tender or swollen gums
- Tooth Loss
- Recession Of Gums
Overall, whatever you call it, vaping or smoking an e-cigarette, there are dangerous overall health and dental risks associated. Many of which are the same as smoking traditional cigarettes. It is a myth to believe that e-cigarettes are healthier than tobacco cigarettes.
Schedule An Appointment
If you are currently using a vape, thinking about using an e-cigarette, or are struggling to quit, contact our Arlington Heights, IL dentist office today to learn more about how we can help. To make an appointment at AH Smiles, call 847.230.9703 or schedule an appointment online.