Smoking and vaping don’t just harm your lungs; they can also cause serious problems in your mouth. These habits can lead to yellow teeth, gum disease, bad breath, and even oral cancer. Our dentist in Armadale explains how smoking and vaping affect your oral health and why taking steps to quit can improve your smile and overall well-being.
What happens when you smoke or vape
When you smoke or vape, you expose your mouth to harmful chemicals. Cigarettes contain tar, nicotine, and over 7,000 different chemicals, many of which are toxic.
Similarly, vaping liquids often contain nicotine, flavourings, and other chemicals that can irritate oral tissues. These substances can lead to unhealthy gums, damage your teeth, and affect the soft tissues in your mouth, contributing to various oral health problems.
Smoking and gum disease
Smoking weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections, including gum disease.
Smokers are more likely to develop gingivitis and periodontitis, which can cause gum recession, bone loss, and, ultimately, tooth loss.
Even with treatment, gum disease is more complex to manage in smokers because the healing process is slower.
Smoking and stained teeth
One of the most visible effects of smoking is the staining and discolouration of teeth. The tar and nicotine in cigarettes stick to the enamel, turning your teeth yellow or even brown over time.
These stains are often resistant to regular brushing and may require professional cleaning or whitening treatments.
Vaping and dry mouth
Vaping is often perceived as a healthier alternative to smoking, but it’s not without risks. One common issue is dry mouth, caused by the ingredients in e-liquids.
Reduced saliva production increases the risk of cavities, bad breath, and oral infections, as saliva plays a critical role in washing away bacteria and food particles.
Smoking, vaping, and bad breath
Both smoking and vaping can lead to persistent bad breath. Smoking leaves a strong odour in your mouth, while vaping can cause dry mouth, which creates a favourable environment for bacteria that produce unpleasant smells.
Additionally, these habits can mask the symptoms of underlying oral health issues, such as gum disease, which also contributes to bad breath.
Slow healing from smoking and vaping
Smoking and vaping slow down the healing process after dental procedures like tooth extractions, implants, or gum surgery.
Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the affected area and delaying recovery. This can lead to complications, including infections and implant failure.
Oral cancer and tobacco
Smoking is one of the leading causes of oral cancer. The chemicals in tobacco products damage the cells in your mouth, increasing the likelihood of cancer developing on the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat.
While vaping is relatively new, some studies suggest that it may also pose risks due to the presence of certain carcinogenic compounds in e-liquids.
How smoking and vaping affect taste and smell
Smoking and vaping can dull your sense of taste and smell. Over time, the chemicals in tobacco and e-liquids damage taste buds and olfactory receptors.
This makes it harder to enjoy the flavours and aromas of food. This sensory loss is often reversible if you quit the habit early enough.
Are e-cigarettes safer?
While vaping is marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, it’s not without risks. The nicotine in e-cigarettes can harm your gums by reducing blood flow, while the vapours and chemicals can cause gum irritation and dry mouth.
These issues may increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, and enamel damage. With long-term effects still unclear, it’s important to use caution and prioritise oral health if you vape.
Regular dental check-ups for smokers and vapers
Smoking and vaping can take a toll on your oral health, leading to issues like gum disease, tooth discolouration, delayed healing, and even oral cancer. Regular dental care is key to catching these problems early and keeping your smile healthy.
Our dentist in Armadale, South Yarra, and the surrounding areas is here to help! From professional cleanings to tailored treatment plans, we’ll support you in maintaining your oral health and improving the appearance of your teeth.Take proactive steps to protect your smile – call us today at (03) 9509 1500 or book an appointment online. Let our professional team help you maintain a healthy, bright smile!
