Vaping and Oral Health

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are electrical devices that vaporize into an aerosol mist containing various concentrations of nicotine. Use of e-cigarettes is commonly known as “vaping.” E-cigarettes have become increasingly popular and represent a large proportion of nicotine use among all ages of the general population. However, the most significant rate of uptake is from the younger community, especially high school aged students.

 

Possible reasons why individuals choose to vape:
– To help stop smoking traditional tobacco cigarettes
– The thought that vaping is less harmful than cigarettes
– Circumvention of smoke-free areas
– Recreational use

 

There are no definitive studies to prove that vaping can help cigarette smokers to quit.

Vaping can also be more dangerous than smoking. One of the main concerns is that vaping is thought to be safer than consuming traditional tobacco products, and companies are adding flavoring to their products to attract younger consumers. Vaping can have numerous detrimental effects on your teeth and gums; including excess bacteria exposure, dry mouth, inflamed gums, bad breath, soft tissue irritation, gum disease, bone loss, and tooth decay. Nicotine is known to cause cancer, heart disease, and developmental delays. Additionally, e-cigarettes can overheat, catch fire, and explode during use, resulting in severe burns to the face.

Due to the dangers of nicotine consumption and the popularity of electronic cigarettes and vaping, it is essential that you disclose this information to your health care provider. It is also vital for parents to discuss with their children the harmful effects that vaping can cause to their development and health.