Vaping and Your Smile: What You Need to Know About Oral Health Risks

With ingredients like formaldehyde, glycerine and nicotine, vape juice is pretty icky. So when you think about that stuff hitting your teeth in aerosol form, it doesn’t sound great. We tend to think of vaping as a safer alternative to smoking, and in some cases, that’s true (for example, when it comes to causing lung cancer). But the jury is still out when it comes to vaping and your oral health. As more long-term research comes to light, we’re learning more about the risks vaping poses to our teeth and gums. The primary concern is the toxic blend of chemicals in vapes that affects everything from your enamel to your gums. If you’re looking to quit smoking, there are much safer and more effective approaches, and your family dentist can help.

How Does Vaping Affect My Mouth?

The chemicals and nicotine in vapes take a toll on every aspect of your oral health. New research is bringing some of the most glaring issues to the forefront.

• Dry mouth is one of the most established side effects of vaping. Ingredients in vapes reduce saliva production, leading to bad breath and tooth decay. Vapes contain an ingredient called Propylene Glycol that removes water molecules from your saliva, causing dry mouth. Saliva also plays a vital role in washing away bacteria from your teeth, so decreased production can contribute to tooth decay.
• Irritated gums: Scientists are still researching the full impact of vaping on periodontal health. However, we know that vaping causes problems for your gums. Multiple new studies have shown that vaping disrupts the oral microbiome (the balance of bacteria in the mouth) and increases the presence of harmful bacteria. Vapes also contain nicotine, which contributes to gum disease by limiting blood flow to your gums and reducing your immunity and ability to fight infection. 
• Slower healing after dental procedures: A 2018 study showed that vaping slows down wound healing just as much as regular cigarettes. Nicotine in vapes decreases blood flow to your gums, making it more difficult for your body to repair tissue. Nicotine also causes blood platelets to clump together, reducing circulation and preventing needed blood flow from reaching wounds. 
• Cavities: Have you ever noticed how many vape flavors feature sweet tastes and smells? Many vapes contain sugary flavors that increase the risk of tooth decay. When you add this to reduced saliva production, it’s a recipe for tooth decay. E-cigarettes can also make users thirsty, and some turn to sugary drinks. 
• Oral cancer: We know there’s a link between regular cigarettes and oral cancer. We’re still learning about potential links between vaping and oral cancer. But we know that formaldehyde, nicotine and other e-cigarette ingredients can cause DNA and cell damage, so it’s something to watch for as long-term studies move forward.

What Is The Latest News On Vaping And Oral Health?

Vaping is only around 20 years old, so there isn’t a lot of long-term data. However, ongoing research gives us a glimpse of potential dangers to oral health. Some of the most recent research focuses on the impact of nicotine on gum health, damaging gum tissue and increasing the risk of periodontal disease. Early evidence also suggests links to enamel erosion and cavities, primarily due to the sticky liquid called vegetable glycerin and chemical flavorings found in vape juice. As vape juice ingredients wear away at your enamel, it can also cause discoloration.

What Are The Warning Signs Vapers Should Watch For?

The symptoms that vapers should watch out for are similar to those of all adult patients. However, there’s more urgency because of the increased risks involved with vaping. If you experience bleeding gums, persistent dry mouth, bad breath, mouth sores, irritated gums, or increased plaque buildup, contact your family dentist for an appointment. 

How Can I Protect My Oral Health If I Vape?

The most important thing for all tobacco users and vapers is to be honest with your dentist. Understanding your history helps us recognize warning signs. As dentists, we recommend avoiding vapes and quitting if you’ve already started. If you want to stop vaping, we can help with medication and other strategies. If you’re not ready, you can protect your teeth and gums by scheduling regular dental checkups. Staying hydrated and brushing and flossing diligently can partially counteract any negative impact.

At Greenhill Family Dental Care, we offer a no-judgment approach to your oral healthcare. We encourage open dialogue, and we want patients to ask questions. If you’re considering quitting, we’re 100 percent here to support you in your journey. We’re dentists, but we care about every patient as a whole human. We want to help your overall health, not just your teeth.