Dentists report a multitude of concerns for the oral health of their vaping patients. As studies develop, ingredients found in e-cigarettes are now proven to cause damage to users’ mouths and teeth. Originally, everyone considered vaping a safer alternative to smoking. The public, and even some medical professionals saw vaping not only safer, but a healthier alternative for smokers. Now, however, users have questions. Specifically, what’s causing problems? In other words, what harmful effects does vaping have on a user’s health?
Surprisingly, vaping was created by a man who lost his father to lung cancer. Consequently he designed the e-cigarette to help curb the addiction for smokers. Because e-cigarettes contain less nicotine, no tobacco and come in enticing flavors, they are drawing users toward them and away from traditional tobacco cigarettes.
What Ingredients in E-Cigarettes are Harmful?
It’s important to remember that e-cigarettes create an aerosol, not a true vapor as the name would suggest. It is important to Although e-cigarettes don’t contain tobacco, several of their ingredients are harmful the user’s oral health.
Nicotine
Despite having lower nicotine content in e-cigarettes than that of a traditional cigarette, the nicotine in an e-cigarette is still causes harm. In the first place, nicotine restricts blood flow to the gums and increases the risk for gum disease. In addition, the tar from nicotine can also stain your teeth, much like traditional cigarettes. As a matter of fact, we know nicotine is an additive that is highly addictive. This is certainly an ingredient that makes it difficult for users to stop vaping.
Propylene Glycol
One of the main ingredients in vape juice is propylene glycol. In particular, this chemical dries out the mouth and irritates soft tissue. Therefore, this ingredient plays a part in the advancement of gum disease or cavities, as well as bad breath.
Vegetable Glycerin
Vegetable glycerin gives the e-cigarette a sweet flavor. However, this sweet ingredient also is sticky in texture, meaning it sticks to teeth and gums. As a result, it also damages the enamel of the teeth. Without a doubt, weakened enamel leaves teeth susceptible to cavities, infection, breakage, and other health issues.
Lithium Batteries
It is important to realize that each e-cigarette is powered by a lithium battery. If you vape, be aware of the danger of using a lithium battery close to your mouth and face. From time to time there have been instances of the battery overheating or exploding causing harm to the user. Although rare, issues of this kind happen. They are generally a result of improper care of the device. None the less consider it a major risk.
How is Vaping Harmful to your Oral Health?
Vaping has major effects on a user’s oral and dental health. With extended use, some of these damaging effects are irreversible. If you, or someone you love vapes, be aware that the following risks come with the use of e-cigarettes:
Cavities
Dryness in the mouth along with the use of sticky tar is the perfect condition for cavities to develop. Weak enamel plays a part in the development of cavities as well.
Gum Disease
Because vaping decreases blood flow to the gums, gum disease is a risk for those who vape. In due time the tissue in the mouth is less able to fight infections, which leads to tooth loss.
Oral Cancer
Yearly oral cancer screenings are important for every patient, but especially for those who vape. If that’s you, remember vaping puts you at a higher risk for developing oral cancer. In other words, annual check-ups are essential.
For more information about the harmful effects of vaping and how to combat them, contact us.
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Disclaimer: The information included in this article is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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