Is vaping really that bad for you? Vaping has become increasingly popular in the last decade, being advertised as “safer” than smoking cigarettes. E-cigarettes are now the most commonly used tobacco product among U.S. youth, being used by 1.63 million middle and high school students in 2024.

Though social influences, flavored products, and advertising all portray the use of e-cigarettes as harmless, vaping can be seriously harmful to your health. Not only does regular use result in a nicotine addiction, but it can have serious consequences on your oral health.

How is Vaping Bad for Your Oral Health?

Although smoking tends to be more associated with lung health, smoking or vaping can also be detrimental to your oral health. Along with affecting the condition of your teeth, it negatively impacts your mouth, lips, throat, and tongue.

E-cigarettes contain nicotine, a harmful and highly addictive substance. Nicotine restricts blood flow, which means your body gets less oxygen and nutrients, and increases heart rate and blood pressure. Some other ingredients lead to dry mouth, irritated lungs and mouth, tooth decay, and increased risk of lung and oral cancer.

Serious Consequences of Vaping

Though there are multiple kinds of damage that can come from vaping, there are a few significant side effects which can be severely detrimental to your oral health.

1. Dry Mouth

Most e-liquids used in vaping contain moisture-absorbing ingredients, like propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, which lead to dry mouth. These ingredients absorb moisture from the entire mouth cavity and lead to an uncomfortable sensation of dryness. 

Dry mouth (xerostomia) can end up leading to worse oral health problems. Less saliva is produced when nicotine is in the mouth because it reduces blood flow to the salivary glands. Without enough saliva to neutralize acids and wash away bacteria, your risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath increases significantly.

2. Cancer & Gum Disease 

One of the worst consequences of vaping is that it can lead to developing certain types of cancers, especially oral cancer. In 2019, it was reported that 90% of people diagnosed with oral cancers are smokers or vapers. Though nicotine is a big contributor to cancer development,  vaping liquids often contain volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, and carcinogens that harm the soft tissues in the mouth and can develop precancerous lesions.

The aerosols in vape pens also contain chemicals that can harm your gums and erode enamel. E-cigarettes trigger inflammation, making your gums susceptible to infection, disease (periodontitis), and even tooth loss. The chemicals and sugar in vape pens also weaken tooth enamel, which leads to decay and cavities.

3. Mouth Burns

The hot vapor in vaping devices can cause both minor and major mouth burns and oral injuries. The mouth is full of delicate tissues which are sensitive to the heat. Vapor burns from high temperatures have similar effects as the burns from hot food or beverages.

Newer and more advanced vaping devices are made with adjustable power settings, which can include very high wattages that increase the risk of burns. Some devices may even overheat and malfunction, so you should always be careful and use caution when vaping.

Other Side Effects

Apart from causing major problems with oral and general health, there are some common side effects that can be uncomfortable, noticeable, and problematic.

• Bad Breath
• Canker Sores
• Yellow or Brown Nicotine Stains
• Breathing Difficulties & Smoker’s Cough
• Oral Thrush

Reduce Impacts of Vaping on Oral Health

Since it’s important to maintain good habits for regular oral health, it’s essential for people who vape to take care of their health since they are more at risk. Taking action can help alleviate some of the effects that come from vaping.

1. Brush Your Teeth – Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes is something you can do to help your teeth stay healthy. Consistently brushing helps to remove plaque and tartar build-up from frequent vaping.
   
2. Floss – An important step that many people skip is flossing. Flossing is extremely beneficial for preserving healthy gums, reducing the risk of cavities, and preventing gum disease.
   
3. Visit the Dentist – You may be nervous about going to the dentist if you vape, but your dentist will be able to help you have good oral health. Visiting the dentist will give you the best clean you can get, while also receiving credible advice on how to preserve your teeth and mouth. 

Help at Mountain View Dental

If you are ready to take a big step and visit the dentist, Mountain View Dental is the place for you. Our team of professionals will give you incredible service and provide a comfortable environment to help you achieve your dental goals.

We offer multiple services including teeth cleanings, dental fillings, and cosmetic dentistry. To take care of your oral health, schedule an appointment with us today!