In a discussion with socialbites.ca, dental expert Luiza Avtandilyan, founder of the Smilestudio clinic, warned about the risks electronic cigarettes pose to dental and oral health. The focus was on how vaping affects the mouth, teeth, and overall wellbeing, with particular relevance for readers in Canada and the United States who encounter these products frequently in daily life.
Avtandilyan pointed out that e-cigarette liquids carry nicotine, a chemical that can be harmful not only to general health but also to the mouth. Nicotine can influence blood flow to the gums, slow healing after dental procedures, and contribute to an environment that encourages inflammation. For people trying to maintain healthy teeth and gums, this means a higher risk of complications connected to nicotine exposure in vaping products.
According to the dentist, vaping elevates the likelihood of periodontal problems, such as periodontitis, an inflammatory condition around the teeth, and gingivitis, the common gum inflammation that can precede more serious issues. These conditions can erode gum tissue, justify increased bleeding, and create pockets around teeth where bacteria flourish. Avtandilyan stressed that these risks extend beyond cosmetic concerns to the structural support of the teeth themselves.
The professional also noted damage to tooth enamel, the hard outer layer that shields teeth from decay. When electronic cigarette use becomes routine, salivary production tends to decline. Saliva acts as a natural mouth protector, helping to rinse away food particles and neutralize acids produced by bacteria. A reduction in saliva dries the mucous membranes and leaves enamel more vulnerable to attack from harmful microorganisms that generate aggressive acids, accelerating enamel wear and weakening its defensive properties.
Gum health is further affected by the additives used in vaping liquids. Components such as propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, dyes, and flavorings can accumulate on the tooth surface. Over time this buildup can promote demineralization, cause enamel thinning, and contribute to sensitivity, the formation of tartar, and even tooth loss. Avtandilyan highlighted that the front lower teeth and the teeth adjacent to them can be particularly impacted by these effects, underscoring the uneven nature of damage tied to daily vaping habits.
Beyond surface damage, there is concern about broader health risks. The dentist emphasized that heat and irritants from the vaping process can irritate the mucous membranes inside the mouth and may lead to trauma of soft tissues. This constant irritation can create an environment that increases the risk of oral cancer over time, especially for individuals who vape regularly or start at a young age. The message was clear: vaping introduces multiple pathways that threaten oral health, from tissue inflammation to malignant changes in the mouth.
Overall, the discussion highlighted that maintaining oral hygiene is essential, but it does not negate the potential harms associated with vaping. The best course of action for individuals concerned about their dental health is to reassess the use of electronic cigarettes and seek guidance from dental professionals. Being aware of the specific ways nicotine, additives, and heat affect the mouth helps patients make informed choices that support long-term oral health and reduce the likelihood of costly dental issues in the future, including gum disease, enamel erosion, and tooth loss.