Month: July 2021

You might think that vaping is a safe alternative to smoking — and you wouldn’t be alone. Many former smokers, and even never-smokers, are turning to electronic cigarettes as a safer smoking option. But just how much safer is vaping than cigarettes? As it turns out, not much safer at all. Vaping poses some of the same health concerns as traditional tobacco, and, as your dentist in Holland knows, some similar oral health problems, too. 

Health Concerns Associated With Vaping

Believe it or not, vape pens or e-cigarettes debuted in the United States all the way back in 2007, but they seemed to pick up in popularity in recent years. Many people choose vaping over smoking cigarettes for a variety of reasons, such as: 

• To help them quit smoking
• Recreation
• Bypass smoking rules
• Belief that vaping is safer

However, research shows that vaping can result in similar health problems as smoking including, but not limited to, an increased risk of pneumonia, rapid heart rate, congestive heart failure, and stroke. 

Oral Health Concerns Associated With Vaping

Similarly to the overall side effects of vaping, there are oral health dangers behind the use of e-cigarettes. 

• Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is one of the most common side effects of vaping. While this doesn’t seem like a very serious problem, it can actually cause more than simple discomfort. Vaping liquid contains an ingredient called propylene glycol, which is one of the most common ingredients found in vaping liquid. This ingredient can cause a mouth to dry out, resulting in bad breath. It can also damage tooth enamel which increases the likelihood of decay and gum disease, both of which will require early intervention from your dentist in Holland to treat successfully. 

• Cavities

The list of dangerous ingredients doesn’t end with propylene glycol. The sweet flavor of many e-liquids can be attributed to something called vegetable glycerin. If there’s one ‘good’ thing about this vape ingredient is that researchers believe that it doesn’t cause cavities. However, if it’s mixed with flavoring, as it is with many e-liquids, it can erode enamel and make it easier for bacteria to stick to teeth. Without enamel and with a surplus of bacteria, the result is often cavities. 

• Gum Disease

E-cigarettes contain nicotine, although usually not as much as cigarettes. This is one reason why many people try to use vaping as a way to quit smoking. But, nicotine has been well researched in the dental community and is known to negatively affect gum tissue and increase the risk of gum disease. If not treated quickly, gum disease can become irreversible and lead to tooth loss, as well as health problems such as heart disease. 

Kick The Habit

Even though one of the main reasons people pick up a vape pen in the first place is to help them stop smoking, there’s no conclusive evidence that this strategy works. In fact, some studies show that vaping has the opposite effect and makes people less likely to quit. Instead of turning to the vape pen, try some proven ways to kick the habit once and for all. The American Lung Association is a great resource for smokers who want to quit. Keep in mind, quitting can be difficult, and not one tactic works for everyone. Don’t give up. 

Your dentist in Holland is here to help keep you healthy, whether you smoke e-cigarettes, traditional cigarettes, or neither. The most important thing to remember is to get a dental checkup at least twice a year. These appointments allow your dental team to keep a close eye on your oral health and intervene quickly if problems arise. 

The American Dental Association, along with your dentist in Holland, recommends brushing your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day, every day. However, many people don’t brush their teeth as often as they should. This can increase the risk of developing some serious oral problems. 

1. Cavities

The most common oral health problem that can happen when you don’t brush your teeth regularly is cavities. Cavities occur when the bacteria in your mouth feed on food debris and release acid. This acid can wear down tooth enamel and decay teeth. The result? A brand new cavity. If treated by your dentist in Holland quickly, a cavity is often an easy fix. However, if the cavity becomes too large and affects the inner workings of the tooth, you may need a root canal or additional treatment.  

2. Bad Breath

Another likely side effect of not brushing your teeth is bad breath. The same bacteria that cause cavities can also carry a pretty pungent smell, and the more bacteria there are, the worse the smell. One of the best ways to avoid bad breath is to brush your teeth twice a day. 

3. Gum Disease

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the gum tissues. It’s often caused by poor oral hygiene habits, such as not brushing your teeth or flossing as often as you should. When you don’t brush regularly, plaque builds up on teeth, can harden into tartar, and provide a nice environment for bacteria to thrive. These bacteria can work their way into your gums and cause an infection. Gum disease can be treated if caught early, but if it’s left alone too long it can contribute to other health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. 

4. Tooth Loss

Untreated gum disease is scary enough since it can lead to other problems throughout the body. However, to make matters worse, gum disease can also lead to tooth loss. Losing natural, adult teeth can mean even more oral health and overall health problems. A jaw bone can deteriorate, chewing power becomes limited, and self-confidence lowers. Thankfully, there are ways to replace teeth such as dentures, dental implants, or even implant-retained dentures. 

We understand that it can be easy to skip brushing your teeth, especially if you’re running late in the morning or are extremely tired at night. However, we always recommend doing everything you can to get a thorough brush in both morning and night. Additionally, we encourage you to see your dentist in Holland every six months for regular checkups and cleanings.