World Oral Health Day: Although touted as a safer substitute for smoking, vaping still presents hazards to oral health. It can lead to dry mouth, gum inflammation, slow healing, tooth sensitivity, and halitosis. If you encounter any vaping-related oral health concerns, seek advice from a dentist promptly for appropriate intervention.
In recent years, vaping has surged in popularity as an alternative to conventional cigarettes. Despite its perceived safety, vaping can detrimentally impact oral health. Users of vape pens may encounter oral health complications like dry mouth and gum disease, posing potential long-term consequences.
Dry mouth is a prevalent consequence of vaping. Dr. Sacheev Nanda, Chief Dental Surgeon specializing in Prosthodontics at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, highlights that vaping reduces saliva production, leading to adverse effects on oral health. Symptoms of dry mouth encompass persistent thirst, swallowing challenges, and a sticky mouth sensation. Insufficient saliva heightens the risk of cavities and gum disease.
The chemicals found in vape aerosols can irritate oral tissues, resulting in gum inflammation and recession,explains Nanda. He further explains that gum inflammation typically presents with redness, swelling, and tenderness. As gum disease advances, the gums may recede from the teeth, potentially exposing the roots and causing tooth sensitivity. This also elevates the risk of tooth decay.
Nicotine, a prevalent component in vape liquids, has the potential to narrow blood vessels and diminish blood flow to the gums. This restricted circulation can lead to delayed healing following dental procedures such as tooth extractions or gum surgery. If you observe prolonged healing times for your gums after dental treatments, it could indicate compromised blood flow stemming from vaping.
Vaping can also weaken tooth enamel, rendering teeth more vulnerable to sensitivity. Sensations of pain or discomfort might arise when consuming hot, cold, or sugary items. Tooth sensitivity can be indicative of underlying dental issues like enamel erosion or cavities, which may be exacerbated by vaping.
Vaping can induce bad breath due to the chemicals found in vape aerosols. This can lead to persistent halitosis, exacerbated by the dry mouth resulting from vaping. It’s noteworthy that experiencing bad breath, despite adhering to good oral hygiene practices, could signify vaping-related oral health issues.
Although vaping is touted as a safer alternative to smoking, it carries risks, particularly concerning oral health, notes Nanda. Early detection and intervention are pivotal in identifying the signs and symptoms of oral health issues stemming from vaping. If you encounter any of the aforementioned symptoms, seeking prompt dental consultation is crucial to address potential vaping-related oral health concerns.