Is Vaping Bad for Your Teeth? Uncovering the Truth

You might have seen people around you using e-cigarettes or vaping devices, inhaling a mist that resembles smoke. It looks trendy and modern, doesn’t it?  

Vaping, a popular alternative to smoking, often markets itself as a safer option than cigarettes.  

But is it bad for your teeth?  

Let’s delve into what we know. 

Vaping ingredients 

Vaping devices contain a liquid that, when heated, produces vapor.  

This liquid has several ingredients. Understanding these ingredients is crucial to grasping vaping’s impact on dental health. 

Typically, the liquid in e-cigarettes contains 

• nicotine; 
• flavorings; and  
• a mix of vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol,  

Propylene glycol, a colorless, thick liquid with virtually no odor, is a common preservative used in many salad dressings, dried soups, and cosmetics. It’s also used in engine coolants, airplane deicers and paint. 

Vegetable glycerin, a clear, syrupy liquid made from soybean, coconut or palm oils, also is used in many foods and cosmetics, as well as some pharmaceuticals. 

Nicotine, an addictive organic compound in tobacco, is the chemical that makes smoking—and vaping—hard to quit. It’s also linked to many health problems. 

A worrisome trend  

Though many may believe the absence of tobacco makes vaping less harmful than traditional cigarettes, some ingredients pose a risk to oral health. 

For example, nicotine reduces blood flow, which can lead to gum problems. Think of a plant that’s not getting enough water. Just as that plant would starts to wither with no water, gums can recede or become unhealthy without proper blood flow. 

A real-life example 

A patient who visited our clinic last year—a young professional in her late 20s—switched from smoking to vaping and noticed her gums bleeding slightly when brushing her teeth. She also noticed an increased sensitivity to cold foods.  

It wasn’t until she visited us that she learned the negative effects of vaping were affecting her teeth and gums. 

What the research says 

Several studies have begun to shine light on the potential harms of vaping. Research has shown that the sweet flavorings in e-cigarettes can lead to bacterial growth in the mouth, which can further lead to cavities and gum disease. Furthermore, the act of vaping can cause dry mouth, another factor that boosts cavity risk. Harmful bacteria grow more easily in a mouth absent sufficient saliva. 

Protecting your smile 

So, is vaping bad for your teeth?  

While more research is needed to understand its full effect, current findings suggest vaping can adversely affect oral health.  

Just because something is labeled as an alternative doesn’t automatically make it a healthier choice. 

Your oral health matters to us 

At Concierge Dental Group, we care deeply about the well-being of our patients. 

Whether you vape, smoke, or are considering either, it’s crucial to stay informed and prioritize your dental health. Schedule an appointment with us today to discuss any concerns you may have, get a thorough check-up, or simply learn more about how to best take care of your beautiful smile.  

Your teeth deserve the best, and we’re here to ensure they get just that!