Q. Would using e-cigarettes affect my oral health?
A. E-cigarettes seem like a fantastic alternative to regular cigarettes – zero tobacco, no known harmful chemicals and they don’t produce smoke smell, fire or ash. An e-cigarette is battery-powered and works by producing an aerosol that you “vape”.
E-cigarettes contain nicotine from the tobacco plant – this can cause gum recession and other oral health problems. Nicotine contributes to the development of gingivitis and periodontitis, which can cause bad breath, grinding and inflammation.
Nicotine is a vasoconstrictor, meaning it reduces the amount of blood that can flow through your veins. Without sufficient blood-flow, the gums do not get the oxygen and nutrients they need to stay healthy. Long-term chewing of nicotine gum can also cause similar problems.
Visit your dentist every three months to monitor your tooth-pocket readings. The chance of gum disease is greater if you’re using nicotine. Regular visits can help prevent tooth loss, bone loss and gum recession. The best and most convenient option here is to eliminate the nicotine habit.
The reality is that many consumers feel a false sense of security in e-cigarettes because they claim to have no harmful effects. The idea that these products will pose no threat is, in actual fact, not 100 per cent proven.
It should dawn on most people that anything that is not a natural part of living (such as sucking on a cigarette or e-cigarette) is not going to be healthy and perhaps now is the time to be free of that addiction once and for all!
Contact Synergy Dental Clinic Bury Today
Unsure about your dental health? Contact Synergy Dental Clinic in Bury on 0161 764 4366 or email the team at bury@synergydental.org.uk today and they’ll take care of everything!