Is Vaping Bad for Your Teeth?

Over the last 15 years, vaping has accelerated worldwide. Currently, more than 16 per cent of adults in Australia have used e-cigarettes sometime in their lives and about 5.5 per cent are regular users.

Most individuals know that there are health risks associated with vaping, including heart and lung disease. But some people wonder, “Is vaping bad for your teeth?”

The short answer is “yes,” but understanding the full effects of vaping on dental health can be a motivating force for quitting or never using. Keep reading to learn more.

How Is Vaping Bad for Your Teeth?

There are several ways that vaping can harm your teeth, gums, and mouth. Here are the main ones to consider when answering, “Is vaping bad for your teeth?”

Dry Mouth

E-cigarettes contain lots of chemicals. One of them is propylene glycol, which can stunt saliva production in the mouth.

Moisture is important to dental health. That is why chronic dry mouth leads to a host of serious conditions. These can include bad breath, mouth sores, and even tooth decay.

Bad Bacteria

Can vaping cause gum disease? Yes, bad bacteria harm the gums, which can cause tooth decay and cavities. It can also lead to heart disease and diabetes.

The digestive tract contains a complex bacterial biome. A healthy one has a balance where “good bacteria” thrive. Vaping can disrupt this balance in the mouth, leading to a proliferation of “bad bacteria.” A recent study showed that teeth exposed to modest levels of aerosol from e-cigarettes had more bad bacteria than those of individuals who did not vape.

Weakened Immune System

An indirect way that vaping is bad for your teeth is that it weakens your immune system. This means that if you do suffer from a gum infection, your body has a harder time fighting it off. As a result, serious gum disease can accelerate and cause more damage than in non-smokers.

Discolouration

Nicotine can discolour teeth. Your teeth, just like your skin, have microscopic pores. Studies of teeth before and after vaping show that nicotine is absorbed by these pores and turns teeth yellow.

You might assume that this is merely aesthetic. Teeth are resilient, and dental cleaning can help remove some of the buildup, but over time, you will still be more vulnerable to tooth decay.

Vaping vs. Smoking Teeth Damage

Some people think that vaping is “healthier” than smoking. This is debatable at best. In fact, vaping carries its own set of health risks that are distinct from regular cigarettes.

This is true for dental health as well. While there may be some evidence that smoking cigarettes can damage teeth faster than vaping, qualitifed dentists will tell you that the difference is negligible.

Learn More About Vaping and Oral Health

Now that you have some answers to “Is vaping bad for your teeth?” you can have a fuller picture of the consequences. If you have experienced teeth or gum degradation related to vaping or smoking, the good news is that restorative techniques can help get you back on track.

The Bondi Dentists offer the highest level of comprehensive general, cosmetic, and restorative dental care. We provide an inviting, comfortable atmosphere for you and your family to make the experience as relaxing as possible. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment.