THE DENTAL RISKS OF VAPING
We’ve all heard the horror
stories about exploding vape pens but there are some much more common
side-effects of vaping that users should be aware of too. Whether you have a
full set of healthy natural teeth or have had dental work done in the past,
we’ve compiled a checklist of things for you to watch out for if you’re a
vaping fan.
While e-cigarettes and vapes
were initially promoted as a “safe” alternative to tobacco, dentists are now beginning
to see more patients presenting with oral conditions rising from or made worse
by regularly use of vape pens.
Nicotine, blood flow &
tooth loss
Vaping is primarily a delivery
system for getting nicotine into our blood streams. Whether it comes from traditional
or e-cigarettes, nicotine causes our blood vessels to narrow slightly and as
any dentist can tell you, this has a big impact within the mouth. Without their
full natural supply of blood, our gums can recede over time. Gum recession is
unfortunately, not reversible and if left untreated it can eventually lead to tooth
loss.
E-Juice chemicals damage
tooth enamel
Even those rare people opting
for zero nicotine puffs are exposing themselves to some hefty damage in the
long run. E-Juice typically contains one or both of Propylene Glycol (PG) and
Vegetable Glycerine (VG). PG is safe enough on its own but in the mouth it
breaks down into chemicals that damage and wear away at the protective enamel
on our teeth. VG, also safe on its own, creates a sticky layer on our teeth
which is perfect for bacteria and other debris to latch on to.
Vaping causes dry mouth
& impairs healing
Regular users undergo a considerable
drop in saliva production which leads to dry mouth, putting them at further
risk of tooth decay, gum disease and (when the vapour wears off) really bad
breath! Denture wearers especially should be careful because dry mouth can lead
to a vicious cycle of denture sores which will take even longer to heal because
of the vaping.
How to minimise dental
damage from vaping
We already know the best way
to avoid these issues is to stop vaping but given the addictive nature of
nicotine and the relaxing nature of the routine, it may be preferable to minimise
any damage while still being able to vape.
Our Dr Denti Mouthwash Tablets are a convenient way to keep your breath fresh and rinse residual PG, VG and other chemicals from your teeth to avoid decay. You should also bear in mind that as your teeth at increased risk of harm, you’ll need to pay special attention to your toothbrushing routine and make sure you’re using an effective product like our Dr Denti Toothpaste Tablets.
As you chew, tablet
granules get worked into all the nooks and crannies of the mouth before fizzing
up into a gloriously thick foam for an unbeatable clean without the mess. Plus they
contain enough fluoride to rank them alongside premium traditional pastes for
fighting off tooth decay.