Vaping is an alternative method of smoking that has recently gained popularity. Many teenagers have picked up the habit because it offers tobacco products in fruity flavors and can be easily hidden. Because it can impact an adolescent's dental health, pediatric dentists recommend that parents properly educate their children on its dangers. Review the guide below if you're unsure how to broach the topic with your teen.

How Does Vaping Affect Oral Health?

Like traditional smoking, vape juice contains nicotine, negatively affecting gum health. This substance restricts blood flow to the gums, diminishing the mouth's ability to fight infection. Due to these effects, smokers are more vulnerable to gum disease and tooth loss.

Another primary ingredient in vape juice is propylene glycol, which has acidic properties that damage enamel. It also reduces the amount of saliva in the mouth, leading to a constant dry sensation. To combat this feeling, many teens often turn to sodas or energy drinks, which contain sugars that lead to decay.

The detrimental oral health effects don't stop there. Vape juice gets its fruity flavor from artificial sweeteners that leave sticky residue on the teeth. This substance encourages plaque growth and diminishes the enamel, which causes infection, decay, and tooth loss.

How Do You Talk to Teens About It?

Many teenagers are aware that smoking is bad. However, you must make sure they understand that vaping can cause as much harm. In contrast to popular belief, it is not a safer alternative to smoking because it's more addictive than traditional cigarettes. Vape products are not regulated and contain much higher amounts of nicotine. When speaking with your teen, ask open-ended questions and keep the tone casual. Nevertheless, you should still stress the consequences of the habit. 

Teach your teenager how vaping can affect their dental health with the help of the pediatric dentists at Pedodontic Associates in Oahu and Maui. This Better Business Bureau®-accredited practice provides many dental services for children and teens, including routine cleanings and fluoride treatments. They will also offer advice that will help instill long-lasting healthy habits. Visit them online for more preventative care advice. To make an appointment, call (808) 487-7933 for the Aiea office, (808) 735-1733 for the Honolulu location, and (808) 877-0066 for the Kahului clinic.