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.