Figure 1: Artificial intelligence analyzes an x-ray of a patient’s teeth for their condition and possible treatments.
Source credit: McLean DDS (LINK)
Vaping has become a popular alternative to cigarettes, as it is often marketed as a safer alternative. However, studies have shown increasing health problems vaping can cause. In addition to the heightened risk of getting lung cancer and cardiovascular disease, the chemicals of e-cigarettes can lead to gum inflammation and tooth decay (Drugwatch).
One of the most significant harms of vaping on oral health is the damage that it can cause to the gums. Vaping has been found to reduce the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream, which can cause inflammation of the gums. This inflammation can lead to gum disease, such as periodontitis, which is a serious condition that destroys the alveolar bone supporting the teeth, eventually causing tooth loss and other complications (American Heart Association News). In addition, vaping can also cause the gums to recede, which can expose the roots of the teeth and lead to sensitivity and pain.
In the most extreme cases, vaping can also cause oral cancer. While the risk of developing oral cancer from vaping is relatively low compared to traditional smoking, it is still a serious concern. Many e-cigarettes have been found to contain specific toxins like formaldehyde, which can increase the risk of developing cancer (Dentistry).
The danger of vaping is easy accessibility and appealing traits, especially to the youth. Many vapes come in various flavors, such as strawberry and apple, and in colorful containers. Furthermore, many teenagers are regularly exposed to images and videos of people blowing clouds of white smoke and become attracted to vaping. Unfortunately, these youths are not aware of the numerous side effects when they start vaping and end up getting addicted.
There are various ways to quit vaping. The best way is to first receive support from your friends and family. It is also important to seek outside help—whether that is from a counselor or an app—and understand what triggers your desire to vape. When you do begin to quit vaping, you may receive some of the following treatments. One popular treatment method is nicotine-replacement therapy (NRT). NRT provides small doses of nicotine without the additional harmful chemicals to reduce symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. NRT comes in various forms, such as gums, lozenges, inhalers, and patches (GoodRx Health). Another treatment is getting prescribed a varenicline. Scientists believe varenicline is able to block the receptors in the brain where nicotine attaches, signaling to the brain that you took nicotine when, in reality, you did not.
No matter how many benefits there are to vaping, the harms will always outweigh them. Vapers should be aware of the risks associated with this activity and take steps to protect their oral health. But, vape or not, it is always important to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Work Cited
Association, American Lung. “Health Risks of e-Cigarettes and Vaping.” Health Risks of E-Cigarettes and Vaping | American Lung Association, https://www.lung.org/quit-smoking/e-cigarettes-vaping/impact-of-e-cigarettes-on-lung#:~:text=E%2Dcigarettes%20produce%20a%20number,as%20cardiovascular%20(heart)%20disease.
“How to Quit Vaping: Tips and Treatments.” GoodRx, GoodRx, https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/smoking-cessation/how-to-quit-vaping-treatments-tips.
McColl, Richard Holliday and Elaine. “Vaping and Oral Health – an Update for the Dental Team - Dentistry.” Dentistry.co.uk, 1 Sept. 2022, https://dentistry.co.uk/2022/08/22/vaping-and-oral-health-an-update-for-the-dental-team/.
“Need Another Reason Not to Vape? Your Oral Health Is at Risk.” Www.heart.org, 23 June 2022, https://www.heart.org/en/news/2020/08/26/need-another-reason-not-to-vape-your-oral-health-is-at-risk.
“Vaping Side Effects: Long-Term Effects of e-Cigarettes.” Drugwatch.com, https://www.drugwatch.com/e-cigarettes/side-effects/.
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