It is common knowledge that smoking is bad for your overall health and well-being. Now, we are hearing more news about young adults and teenagers vaping. According to the Center on Addiction, this is when a person inhales aerosol, often referred to as vapor, which is produced by an e-cigarette. When a person vapes, this causes a significant amount of danger to your oral health.
But how exactly does vaping affect your oral health? According to researchers, it has to do with excess bacteria, dry mouth, inflamed gums and more.
Vaping causes excess bacteria: Studies find that people who use e-cigarettes have more bacteria than those who do not use e-cigarettes. Excess bacteria is known to cause cavities, tooth decay and even gum disease.
Vaping causes dry mouth: E-cigarette base liquids cause dry mouth. This, in addition to inflamed gums, increased bacteria and swelling can cause gum disease. Dry mouth can also lead to more tooth decay.
Although e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco, they still pose a significant threat to your health, and not just your oral health. Using e-cigarettes can also cause cancers, as suggested in early research studies:
- Lung cancer
- Gastrointestinal cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Breast cancer
Seeking a dentist: If you vape, or know someone else who does, we recommend you make an appointment with your dentist or encourage the person that is vaping to see their dentist. Dr. Gallo can help diagnose issues related to vaping. Some symptoms you may want to look out for include:
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
- Mouth ulcers
- Bleeding gums
Seek emergency medical attention if any of these symptoms are experienced with a fever or swelling in your face or neck. If you notice any of these symptoms without a swelling or a fever please seek the care of your dental and primary care provider.
