Vaping, which is frequently promoted as a "safer" alternative to smoking, has grown in popularity. However, a new study indicates vaping still carries serious hazards, particularly for your teeth and gums, even if it may lessen exposure to some of the dangerous chemicals contained in cigarettes.
Gingivitis, an early and curable stage in which gums become inflamed, red, and prone to bleeding while brushing or flossing, is the precursor of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. It is caused by plaque bacteria buildup at the gum line, which irritates the soft tissues. Gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a more serious and permanent type of the illness that spreads deeper and causes gums to pull away from teeth and form infected pockets, if treatment is not received.
The bone that supports teeth is destroyed when periodontitis worsens, which may result in tooth loss or loose teeth. Persistent poor breath, swollen or sore gums, uncomfortable chewing, and changes in the way teeth fit together while biting are common warning signs.
Professional cleaning and better dental hygiene can correct gingivitis, but more thorough therapy is needed for periodontitis in order to control the infection and stop more harm to the tissues of the gums and bones.
Here are a few ways in which vaping contributes to gum disease:
E-liquids, particularly those containing propylene glycol, have the potential to induce dry mouth. Without saliva, plaque accumulates more quickly, raising the risk of gum disease.
Research indicates that vapers have more dangerous mouth bacteria than non-smokers. Bacterial development is encouraged by vaping chemicals and the warm, moist environment of the mouth.
By limiting blood flow to the gums, nicotine obscures early illness symptoms (such as bleeding). Gum tissue may become even more irritated by flavoring substances like menthol and cinnamon.
Nicotine delays the healing of gum tissue, which makes it more difficult to recover from dental treatments or infections.
Oral hygiene is important, and it's even more important when you vape. Here's how you can take care of it:
Your first line of protection against gum disease is good dental hygiene. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, brush your teeth twice a day. Angle the brush at a 45-degree angle to clean the gum line, which is where plaque builds up.
Vaping frequently results in less saliva being produced, which fosters the growth of dangerous microorganisms. Drink water often throughout the day, especially after vaping sessions, to combat this.
Since nicotine narrows blood vessels, gum tissue cannot get enough blood, which hinders its capacity to repair and fend off infection. To reduce this danger, pick e-liquids without nicotine if you plan to keep vaping.
Professional cleanings are essential every six months for getting rid of tartar, or hardened plaque, which is impossible to remove with at-home brushing. Tell your dentist that you vape so they can keep an eye out for early indications of gum disease, such as recession or pocket development.
Vaping can exacerbate gum disease by encouraging the growth of germs, producing dry mouth, and hiding its signs. It is far from safe for your dental health, even if it might not be as bad as smoking.
If you have further queries regarding your dental health, consult our experts at Riverside Family Dental.
Call us at (586) 468-0983 to schedule an appointment.
