Orthodontist warns of 4 issues vaping could cause to enamel

Jul 22, 2023 at 4:31 PM
Orthodontist warns of 4 issues vaping could cause to enamel

When e-cigarettes first grew to become broadly obtainable it was hoped they would offer a more healthy various to smoking conventional cigarettes.

While they could not trigger a few of the well being points that tobacco does, there may be concern about different issues related to vaping.

One orthodontist warned that the behavior may have a unfavorable impact on our mouth and teeth.

Doctor Khaled Kasem, chief orthodontist at Impress, warned of 4 points that may very well be brought on by vaping.

Dry mouth

Vapes comprise loads of chemical substances, reminiscent of propylene glycol, stated Dr Kasem.

He defined: “These chemicals, when consumed, can cause dry mouth, as they reduce the production of saliva.

“Saliva is vital for neutralising the acids that sit on the teeth. Reducing the amount of saliva produced will increase the risk of developing cavities.

“If not treated correctly, this can lead to tooth decay, or in some cases tooth loss.”

Gum illness

Exposing gums to a sizzling, drying vapour could cause irritation and enhance the danger of gum illness.

Dr Kasem stated: “The common symptoms of gum disease are bleeding, swelling of the gums and in some cases, tooth loss.

“However, nicotine restricts the blood flow, so early signs of gum disease are often not noticed amongst those who vape, meaning the risk of developing a much more severe case of gum disease is much higher in those who vape than those who don’t.”

Teeth grinding

Nicotine is a stimulant that always causes tooth grinding, also referred to as bruxism, stated Dr Kasem.

He stated: “Those who frequently grind and apply too much stress to their teeth, more often than not, will develop jaw disorders, headaches, flattened or fractured teeth, increased tooth sensitivity and even tooth loss in some cases.”

Damage tooth enamel

The important operate of tooth enamel is to guard enamel from any harm,” stated Dr Kasem.

He added: “Many flavoured vapes contain sweeteners and can be quite acidic, which can weaken the enamel on the teeth.

“Once the enamel is damaged there is no going back, leaving the mouth vulnerable to bacteria and the catalyst of a range of oral health problems, such as cavities, tooth decay and tooth sensitivity.”

He additionally warned that it may have an effect on how your enamel look.

“If you’re going through invisible aligner treatment, it’s important to refrain from vaping whilst wearing your invisible aligners,” Dr Kasem stated.

“This is because nicotine often lingers in the mouth, which can cause discolour to the aligner trays, therefore increasing the risk of causing discoloration to the teeth too.”

He added: “There are still many studies needed to be conducted when it comes to vaping and the impact it has on oral health.

“The best way to try and negate the negative effects vaping can have on oral health is to try and limit any nicotine intake, keep teeth clean, and drink plenty of water.”