How Does Vaping Affect Oral Hygiene?

Vaping has become a very popular trend in American culture, and it is presented by many as being a healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes. Regardless of whether or not vaping is a better option for overall health, vaping still affects oral hygiene in a negative manner, and it is important for individuals who vape to take extra caution with their oral hygiene.

Vaping and oral hygiene

There are various ways vaping can have a negative impact on oral hygiene. In many instances, vaping can lead to the need for dental procedures that could otherwise have been avoided with good oral hygiene.

The following are the four most common effects on oral hygiene caused by vaping.

Gum recession

Vaping still involves the use of nicotine, which along with other ingredients found in e-cigarettes can eat away at the gum tissue and cause gum recession. Additionally, vaping can restrict blood flow to the gums, which can also lead to gum recession.

In order to avoid gum recession that can result from constant vaping, it is important to constantly clean gums by using mouthwash and brushing the gums several times a day. By doing so, the oral hygiene effect of gum recession caused by vaping is kept at a minimum.  

Swollen gums

Along with gum recession, vaping can also irritate the gums, which can lead to swollen gums. When gums become swollen, it can lead to the gums becoming very tender and sensitive and can even cause pain and soreness.

If swollen gums, along with other common gum issues, are not treated in an urgent manner by a dentist, there is a chance that they can lead to periodontal disease and other very serious oral hygiene concerns, which is why it is important to practice good oral hygiene and visit the dentist often when vaping.

Tooth decay

While there are not any specific ingredients that may suggest a significant risk of tooth decay when vaping, tooth decay can most certainly lead to dry mouth, which is one of the more common causes of tooth decay.

When the mouth becomes dry, saliva is not produced. Saliva works to wash away bacteria and other harmful substances and keep teeth and overall oral hygiene protected. When dry mouth is not avoided while vaping, it puts the individual at an increased risk of developing tooth decay as well.

Bad breath

Perhaps one of the more annoying side effects of vaping on a daily basis is bad breath, especially for others around the one vaping. While the scent of vaping usually smells somewhat pleasant, the nicotine in e-cigarettes can cause bad breath.

Additionally, as mentioned previously, vaping can cause dry mouth, which is a major contributing factor to bad breath. While bad breath is certainly annoying to the individual and others, it is also an oral hygiene concern that can point towards other problems as well, such as tooth decay, gum disease or in some instances an oral infection.

Looking for oral hygiene care near the 10065 area? Call New York Dental Office at (212) 548-3261.

Recent Posts

How To Brush Your Teeth

Brushing of the teeth should be done multiple times daily in order to properly maintain good oral hygiene. Each person has a different way that they may brush their teeth, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that their way is the right way. It’s important to brush efficiently and frequently so that teeth remain clean and…

Should I Brush My Tongue?

Just about everyone understands the importance of brushing their teeth on a daily basis. Most understand the importance of brushing their gums, but all too many neglect to brush their tongue during their oral care routine.It can be easy to forget about the tongue when brushing. But, it is important to make it a habit…

Oral Hygiene: Dental Care For Adults

While both children and adults need to practice good oral hygiene, there are a few additional considerations adults need to keep in mind when it comes to on their oral health. It is essential for persons of every age to gently brush their teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day, and to…

Popular Types Of Floss And Tips For Flossing

There are varying types of floss and tips for flossing, and there is no standard way that is best for everyone. In fact, there is no rule that states you cannot have more than one type of dental floss product in your home.Each serves its own purpose. For example, dental tape is a great tool…


Recent Posts

How To Clean And Maintain Your Dentures For Optimal Oral Health

How To Clean And Maintain Your Dentures For Optimal Oral Health

Dentures are the way to go if you are looking for an affordable way to replace missing teeth. They typically fall under one of two categories: partial and complete dentures. Partial dentures are recommended when a person has lost only some of the teeth in a dental arch. Full dentures are typically recommended for those…

Choosing An Adult Orthodontics Option

Choosing An Adult Orthodontics Option

There are many reasons why adult orthodontics is used to treat tooth issues. You may have crowded teeth, missing teeth, or your jaws may be out of alignment (a condition that is also known as malocclusion or “bad bite.” These conditions can cause increased wear on your teeth, cause jaw pain or make you have…

New York Dental Office