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It is widely known that smoking can seriously harm your oral health. Smoking increases the prevalence of oral cancers, gum disease, plaque, tooth discoloration and loss of bone in the jaw.

Risk to oral health?

In recent years, e-cigarettes have had a huge increase in popularity. Users enjoy the absence of bad-smelling smoke and the ability to vape inside. There is the lack of any fire risk and potential cost savings compared to traditional cigarettes. Since vaping does not involve inhaling the same thick smoke as cigarettes, some believe that e-cigarettes do not pose a risk to oral health.

Although there is some evidence to suggest e-cigarettes may be less harmful to your general health than traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes can cause serious damage to your oral health.

E-cigarettes are known to cause inflammation of the throat and the mouth. Furthermore, these devices are not yet known to be safe to operate. There are multiple documented cases of e-cigarettes exploding in the mouths of users, causing both burns and broken teeth. Lastly, while some people may find e-cigarettes useful as a smoking cessation aid, they can also function as a gateway drug. Significant numbers of young people become accustomed to the actions and rituals of smoking in the first place through e-cigarettes, and then go on to smoke traditional cigarettes.

Smokeless (chewing) tobacco

A similar dynamic is at work with smokeless tobacco. Some users believe that because they do not inhale any smoke, there will be no harm to their oral health. However, smokeless tobacco is known to have a profoundly harmful impact on oral health. It dramatically increases the risk of oral cancer. Many users also experience gum (periodontal) disease. Tooth discoloration occurs in many cases. Some people also experience a decreased sense of smell and taste. In addition, smokeless tobacco often has harmful additives. Sugar is a common component, which increases the risk of tooth decay and cavities. Sand and grit are also very common in chewing tobacco. Their presence erodes teeth and causes increased teeth sensitivity.

Chewing tobacco and vaping might not generate smoke as traditional cigarettes do, but they can be very harmful to your oral health. If you would like to quit smoking, talk to your doctor about smoking aids or programs. If you are experiencing any of effects above, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Southeast Family Dental on 317-359-8000.