Vaping is a popular way to consume products like nicotine and cannabis. But while it’s touted as a healthier alternative to smoking, you would be right to ask questions about how vaping impacts your teeth.
While vaping’s effect on teeth discolouration may be lesser than that of traditional cigarettes, vaping may still stain your teeth. There are things you can do to take better care of your oral health, however. Professional teeth whitening is another option for individuals concerned about the appearance of their teeth.
Vaping Explained
Vaping is the inhalation and exhalation of substances that have been heated by a device into an aerosol. Unlike smoking, vaping does not involve combustion (burning).
Vaping is a popular way to consume substances like nicotine and cannabis. Vaping liquids often also contain flavourings, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and other ingredients. Vaping liquid does not contain tobacco, but the nicotine that is used in them is often extracted from the tobacco plant.
Does Vaping Stain Teeth?
Vapes that contain nicotine may cause teeth stains, among other side effects. Vapes do not contain tar and ash, which have a stronger staining effect. But the colouring agents in the vape liquid along with the nicotine can lead to tooth discolouration.
Vaping may also lead to teeth staining in a more indirect way: xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a potential side effect of vaping. Chronic dry mouth, consequently, can cause stained teeth.
Dry Mouth
Many vaping liquids contain propylene glycol, which is a cause of dry mouth.
Dry mouth isn’t just uncomfortable. Saliva has an important role: it lubricates your mouth and flushes out food particles. It also helps prevent cavities by neutralizing acids that are created by bacteria. Less saliva can result in cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and infections.
To prevent dry mouth, stay hydrated. You can also limit your coffee, tea, alcohol, and sugar consumption. Have concerns about dry mouth? Book an appointment with us and our team can assess your oral health.
Other Chemicals
While vaping contains fewer of the harmful particles found in tobacco smoke, it also contains many substances other than nicotine. For example, vaping liquids often include vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol.
When exposed to high temperatures, propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin undergo chemical reactions and form new compounds, including formaldehyde. The higher the temperature, the more potentially dangerous compounds are released.
Propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin are considered safe when used in cosmetics and food, but research is ongoing on whether inhaling them is harmful.
Vaping’s Effects
When you vape, you’re not only affecting the appearance of your teeth. Vaping can have significant effects on your health, such as:
- Higher risk of heart disease
- Coughing and irritation
- Negative impacts on cognition
- Negative impacts on adolescent brain development
- Addiction and dependence
- Exposure to carcinogens
Vaping can be difficult to study because there is so much variation in the levels of chemicals. What vapour exactly contains depends on the device you use, the vapour formulation, temperature settings, and how often you vape.
How to Prevent Teeth Stains
Vaping isn’t the only thing that causes teeth stains. Consuming dark foods, coffee, tea, alcohol and even aging can lead to discolouration. However, there are simple things you can do to prevent teeth stains, such as:
- Good oral hygiene: The Canadian Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day
- Brush or rinse after eating: Consider brushing your teeth—or at least rinsing out your mouth with water—immediately after eating or drinking dark-coloured foods and beverages
- Professional cleaning: Regular visits to the dentist can help you get rid of stains, plaque, and tartar
- Teeth whitening: You can get professional teeth whitening done at the dentist, or buy over-the-counter teeth whitening products
- Stay hydrated: As previously mentioned, chronic dry mouth can lead to major problems like gum disease, cavities, and bad breath
Consider Quitting
It’s not easy, but quitting smoking and vaping is a path towards both whiter teeth and better health.
If you’re thinking about quitting, you’re not alone. There are many resources available to Ontario residents, from nicotine-replacement products covered by the Ontario Drug Benefit to support groups and individual counselling services.
Professional Teeth Whitening in Davisville and Eglinton
While vaping may be less harmful than smoking, its health risks should not be overlooked. One risk is vaping’s potential to stain teeth.
However, there are things you can do to prevent teeth staining, from good oral hygiene habits to professional teeth whitening. Be aware, however, that vaping is associated with other significant health risks. This includes dry mouth, which is also associated with various dental problems.
Have questions about the state of your teeth or the effects of vaping? Don’t hesitate to ask our team at Belman Dental Centre. Our practice is built on a non judgemental ethos of compassion and comfort. We’re here to help, so book an appointment today!