The Effects of Vaping on Teeth

While high school students might believe that vaping devices are a safe and trendy alternative to cigarettes, the effects of vaping can also cause health problems. Some might be skeptical of how vaping can damage teeth, but it can damage far more. Although there may be lower nicotine levels in vaping liquids, the other chemicals present can create several other problems that traditional tobacco products can’t.

Here are the various ways that the effects of vaping can damage a vaper’s mouth.

Vaping Isn’t Free From Nicotine

The effects of nicotine are notorious for restricting blood flow to the gums, and while vaping liquid has less overall nicotine, it is still enough to cause significant harm. Decreased blood flow in the gums can cause a myriad of issues, such as reducing their ability to stave off infections. Additionally, lack of oxygen flow to the gums can cause them to recess. This detriment can increase the sensitivity of the teeth, which in turn increases the chances of problems like cavities. However, this is just one of the forms of damage caused by vaping.

Vape Contains Dangerous Chemicals

Propylene Glycol is a core ingredient in vaping liquid that’s absent in other tobacco-based products, and it can cause various problems for one’s mouth. After a vaper ingests Propylene Glycol, it breaks down into an acid that is toxic to soft tissue and tooth enamel. Given that cigarettes lack this chemical, this is one such way that the tooth damage caused by vaping is worse than other tobacco products.

Additionally, Propylene Glycol can reduce the amount of saliva in a vaper’s mouth and cause dry mouth. Teenagers usually have higher saliva quantities than older adults but have begun to develop dry-mouth-related diseases, such as periodontal disease, because of vaping. Further, dry mouth can also cause plaque buildup, tooth decay, and other tooth damages caused by vaping.

Another dangerous chemical found in vape liquid is vegetable glycerin, which is used as a sweetener. Even if the sweetener tastes good to vapers, their mouths won’t appreciate the damaging effects it has. After inhaling a vape, the sweetener can help bacteria stick to their teeth and increase the chances of an infection.

Vaping Can Cause Tremendous Damage to More Than Your Teeth

When all of the aforementioned chemicals combine in a vaper’s mouth, the results can be disastrous. The inflammation caused by the nicotine exposure, increased bacteria, and dry mouth all work together to make an individual’s mouth more susceptible to gum disease, which hurts more than just their teeth. Other potential tooth damages caused by vaping include oral infections and oral cancer, which can be deadly if not addressed early on in their progression.

Additionally, the lithium batteries in certain e-cigarettes have exploded in the past. Though the likelihood of such an event occurring is low, vape explosions can cause considerable damage in a victim’s mouth if they were vaping when the battery exploded.

If you need the assistance of an emergency dental surgeon or same-day dental implants in Philadelphia, contact Center City Emergency Dentist today!

Waterpik vs. Dental Floss: What’s Better For You

For decades, brushing and flossing have been a part of people’s dental routine. Everyone claims to floss every day to their dentist, but it is safe to say that we all miss a day or two. As the years have passed since floss hit the market, there is a new kid on the block to compete with dental floss: The Waterpik.
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What is an Inlay?

No matter how careful you are, you may have a dental emergency at some point. If you trip and fall, experience a sports injury, or even bite down on something too crunchy, you could end up with a chipped or cracked tooth. Depending on the severity of the damage and your discomfort level, your dentist may determine that a dental inlay is the best form of restoration for your damaged tooth.  Continue reading “What is an Inlay?”

10 Healthy Oral Habits for 2021

At Center City Emergency Dentist, our goal is to ensure your smile is the best it can be. During routine checkups and cleanings, we’ll offer insight and guidance on how to do that. When there’s a need for an emergency or cosmetic dentist, Philadelphia residents can count on our team to provide full help. In the meantime, consider these healthy oral habits. Continue reading “10 Healthy Oral Habits for 2021”

The Benefits of Using a Night Guard

Are you considering wearing a night guard and don’t know if it’s the right choice for you? Many people choose to wear a night guard to protect their teeth from issues like clenching and grinding that can cause premature damage, which is why they are commonly used as part of restorative dentistry in Philadelphia. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the biggest benefits of using a night guard. Continue reading “The Benefits of Using a Night Guard”