While more research needs to be performed, initial studies concerning vaping show that using e-cigarettes can be damaging to oral tissue. Since many vape cartridges do contain nicotine, which is a vasoconstrictor, vaping nicotine-containing liquids can constrict the arteries and reduce the necessary nutrients and oxygenated blood flow to the gums and other soft tissues of the mouth. Vasoconstriction can lead to a higher risk of developing gum disease, as bacteria thrive in a de-oxygenated environment. Research from 2018 found that teeth exposed to the aerosol in e-cigarettes accumulated more bacteria than teeth not exposed to vaping. 

Vaping can contribute to oral health problems such as:

• Gum recessionand tooth sensitivity: Nicotine, as well as heat from the vapor inhaled, can cause the gums to recede. If the underlying root structure becomes exposed, the teeth can be more sensitive to cold or heat. Receding gums can also lead to malocclusions(bite problems) and loose, overcrowded, or twisted teeth.
• Xerostomia/dry mouth: Propylene glycol, a chemical in many e-liquids, can cause a lack of moisture in the mouth. When the mouth is not adequately hydrated, oral tissues are more susceptible to bacteria, and therefore tooth decay(cavities), as well as acid erosion.
• Stomatitis: Ulcers or lesions, usually on the upper palate can present after vaping due to the extreme heat of the e-liquid as it is vaporized. The oral tissue can become thick (hyperkeratosis), causing redness, irritation, and cracking. Stomatitis usually appears as dark-colored spots on the palate.
• Teeth grinding (bruxism): As nicotine is a muscle stimulant, using vape pens which contain nicotine can lead to teeth grinding. Over time, bruxism can cause jaw pain and sensitivity, teeth flattening and cracking, and headaches.

Signs that vaping may be affecting your oral health include:

• Red, irritated, or bleeding gums
• Bad breath
• Gum tenderness or swelling
• Loose teeth
• Dry mouth
• Dry cough

Vaping can affect oral health negatively, despite electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) being touted as a “healthy” alternative to traditional smoking. While conventional cigarettes do contain considerably more toxins, e-cigarettes still contain harmful substances that can be detrimental to oral health. Unfortunately, due mainly to the appealing flavors offered in vape pens and e-cigarettes, vaping is more often used by adolescents and teens recreationally rather than a nicotine replacement for smokers trying to quit. 

The Growing Trend of Vaping Among Young People

Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) were introduced to American society in 2006 and began to be regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2016. FDA statistics show an increase in high schoolers vaping from 1.5% in 2011 to 16% in 2015. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) research shows:

• Twice as many boys use e-cigarettes than girls
• 30% of teen e-cigarette users begin smoking tobacco products within 6 months
• Vaping among high school seniors jumped from 27.8% in 2017 to 37.3% in 2018 (20.9% stated they vaped nicotine products and 13.1% vaped marijuana)
• 10.9% of eighth grade students reported vaping nicotine between 2017 and 2018

These numbers represent an additional 1.3 million adolescents who vaped in 2018 versus 2017. Many teens taking these surveys did not know what the exact ingredients were in their vaping devices, and many of the most popular e-cigarettes brands do not offer nicotine-free products. 

Other Vaping Concerns

Nicotine is an addictive substance, so vaping liquids containing nicotine can be habit-forming. In addition, e-liquids can contain other chemicals such as diethylene glycol, a substance found in antifreeze. 

The results of a recent Canadian study show that mouth cells, which typically die at a rate of 2%, escalated to a 53% rate after just 3 consecutive days of vaping. These cells are necessary to protect the mouth from gum disease and other infections. Studies also showed that the heated vapors that come in contact with the oral tissues can cause the remaining cells to release inflammatory proteins that can damage the mouth. 

If your child is vaping, talk to him/her about the consequences of using e-cigarettes, and be sure to keep regular appointments with your pediatric dentistfor oral screenings. For a consultation about vaping and oral health, please contact our kid-friendly office for an appointment. 

If you can teach your children how to properly care for their teeth and gums, it helps them maintain a healthy, beautiful smile throughout their lives. Keep reading for some tips that help you encourage your children to utilize good dental habits from a young age:

Make Brushing Fun

If your child feels like brushing his or her teeth is a chore, they are far less likely to do it. When a child can find fun in the act of brushing his or her teeth, though, it is much easier to incorporate it into a daily hygiene routine. Whether you have a two-minute dance party that helps your child learn the correct amount of time for which to brush or you offer a prize for the child who brushes the most consistently, adding an element of fun is a great way to get your child to brush on a regular basis. Read more about motivating your child to brush their teeth.

Explain the Harm of Not Brushing

If you and your pediatric dentist can talk to your kids about the dangers of plaque and cavities, it can help them understand the need for good dental habits. When they have a specific reason for caring for their teeth and gums, it instantly gives them motivation to continue with these healthy habits.

Show them the Way

One of the best ways to encourage good behavior in your children is to practice the behavior yourself. If you want your children to consistently brush and floss, it is important that you do it as well. The more they see you practicing good oral hygiene, the easier it is for them to mimic your behavior.

With the help of the children’s dentists at KidsDental, you can help your children maintain healthy teeth and gums from a young age. Our pediatric dentistry services offer the support your need to ensure that your children have their best smiles.