While you may already be aware that smoking harms your teeth, you may be wondering if vaping is safe. No, vaping is no safer for your teeth than smoking. While some people transition from smoking to vaping because they believe it is a safer alternative, research shows that it is really harmful to your gums and teeth. Vaping has the same negative impact on your dental health as smoking. Consequently, your dentist will be able to tell if you have been vaping.

Unfortunately, many teenagers are also vaping and endangering their dental health. According to a recent survey, up to 37% of high school graduates and more than 17% of middle schoolers vaped in the previous year. That is why understanding the risks of vaping is critical.

Here are some of the ways that vaping might impair your dental health:

Nicotine Has the Potential to Stain and Harm Teeth and Gums

Although vaping does not contain tobacco, it does contain nicotine. Understanding nicotine’s effects on oral health are vital because one cartridge of an e-cigarette is equivalent to smoking 2-3 packs of traditional cigarettes. Nicotine is hazardous because, when combined with saliva, it causes yellow and/or brown stains on your teeth, which harms dental aesthetics and health. As you continue to smoke, the stains will grow more widespread and difficult to remove.

Studies have demonstrated nicotine to have a negative effect on the gums. According to research, nicotine acts as a vasoconstrictor, reducing blood flow to the gum tissue. The impact on immune cells exacerbates poor circulation caused by nicotine, which increases the user’s risk of acquiring gum disease. Nicotine usage is linked to tooth loss, bone loss, and more oversized periodontal pockets.

Dry Mouth Caused by Vaping

While nicotine inhibits saliva flow in your mouth, so does the chemical Propylene Glycol, which is found in vaping oils. This substance absorbs moisture in the mouth, resulting in dry tooth surfaces and tissues. Reduced saliva leads to dry mouth, leading to more tooth decay, plaque bacteria, and an increased risk of gum disease because saliva is your strongest protection against dental decay.

Cavities and Tooth Staining

Propylene glycol also degrades into acids that destroy the enamel, making teeth more susceptible to cavities. Furthermore, vegetable glycerin and other flavorings in oils assist germs in sticking to already damaged teeth. The additives used to flavor the vape have been found to reduce enamel hardness by as much as 27%.

Burns In The Mouth

Burns in the mouth can develop when vaping. This is due to lithium batteries, which can overheat or even explode. While this is uncommon, it is something that can occur.

Palate Stomatitis

Vaping can cause the cell lining of the mouth, particularly the roof of your mouth, to become irritated, resulting in painful sores and ulcers.

Tooth Damage

Nicotine is a muscle stimulant. Because of this, it can cause you to grind and clench your teeth more so than you would before. This is known as Bruxism. Bruxism can lead to bone loss surrounding your teeth, headaches, jaw pain, and broken and damaged teeth.

Don’t Think Vaps is a Better Alternative

Even while e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco, their oils include nicotine, which produces oral problems similar to smoking. In addition, the additional components in vape oils can harm your teeth.

The myth is that vaping is healthier than smoking. Another myth is that vaping is not harmful to your teeth. So, if you vape or smoke, be aware that the habit might cause major issues with your teeth and gums.

If you vape, take care of your oral health by visiting your dentist regularly. If you wish to quit smoking, talk to your dentist about your alternatives and how to best protect your teeth and gums from nicotine’s effects on oral health.