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Many people know of electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigs or vapes. These battery-operated devices may not seem dangerous at a glance, but they often contain potentially harmful ingredients like nicotine and chemicals. Unfortunately, they can have a considerably negative impact on gum health. Here's what dentists want all patients to know.

How Vaping Affects Gums & Teeth

While the vaping trend is relatively young, many studies link its usage to poor oral health outcomes. In particular, nicotine can minimize blood flow to the gums. This can encourage periodontal disease, a serious condition that may lead to inflammation, sensitivity, and potential tooth loss.

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A primary concern is nicotine's ability to slowly break down gum tissue, leading to a slow recession. This leaves the tooth's roots exposed, leading to hypersensitivity and chronic discomfort. As the gums recede, the teeth are more exposed to bacteria, leaving them vulnerable to cavities. This type of decay can raise the risk of dry mouth, which causes reduced saliva production and, as a result, increases oral bacteria. The irritation may also promote gum swelling, which can make everyday activities like eating and drinking painful.

Tips to Quit Vaping

Any habit can be challenging to quit, but it's important to approach it sensibly and be patient with yourself. The first step is to commit to the process. Avoid putting it off—the sooner you start, the better. However, don't punish yourself if you slip in the beginning. 

To avoid any missteps, try to get rid of all of the vaping products you own. When they aren't around, you're less likely to spend more money on new items. Keep other options on hand to occupy yourself if you're tempted, such as sugar-free gum or even toothpicks.

Think about what feelings trigger you to vape, such as stress or loneliness. Recognize that vaping to ease a negative emotion will not ultimately resolve those feelings. It may help to talk to a therapist and a dentist as you begin the journey. Knowing more about how it's impacted you personally can help you feel more motivated to quit. 

 

If you're concerned about the effects of vaping on your gums, turn to Dr. Richard R. Miller Jr., DDS. Proudly serving patients throughout Summerville and Fairmount, GA, this dentist takes pride in providing compassionate care in a comfortable setting. Dr. Miller and his experienced team offer various services, including general cleaning, routine checkups, root canal therapy, and restorative dentistry. Visit the website to learn how they can help. You can also call the Summerville office at (706) 857-4741 or the Fairmount office at (706) 337-3347 to schedule an appointment.

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