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Receding Gums: Smoking and Vaping Are Bad For Dental Health

by | Jan 14, 2021 | receding gums caused by smoking and vaping

Nicotine Harms Dental Health

Receding gums caused by smoking and vaping can lead to pain, gum disease and tooth loss. The simple truth is: smoking and vaping are bad for dental health. While many people realize nicotine is harmful for health in general, they may not realize this fact.

Vaping and dental health

Vaping is the latest alternative to smoking cigarettes. The name refers to the vapors inhaled when smoking e-cigarettes. The benefits of e-cigarettes over cigarettes are a lack of teeth discoloration and bad breath. It also doesn’t cause plaque buildup. However, the nicotine in e-cigarettes has the same negative effect as nicotine in regular cigarettes.

Nicotine restricts blood flow. Restricted blood flow inhibits your ability to fight off bacteria in the mouth. Consequently, bacteria are more able to create gum disease. In fact, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) nicotine is a significant factor in causing gum disease. Its use is linked to increased pocket depth, a higher rate of tooth loss and bone loss.

In addition, with vaping, the vapors affect gum tissue by releasing inflammatory proteins. The proteins can cause oral diseases. The flavoring in e-cigarettes can cause damage to the mouth’s cells. As far as potential damage the respiratory system, they are equally as damaging as regular cigarettes.

Damages of regular smoking on oral health

The tar, nicotine and harmful chemicals in cigarettes leave yellow stains on teeth. What’s worse, these elements weaken tooth enamel and make teeth more prone to harmful bacteria that causes tooth decay. They also lead to gum disease and sensitive teeth. Sensitive teeth are a painful condition caused by the exposure of the inner tooth layer called dentin.

The best way to deal with the harmful effects of smoking or vaping is to quit. If you have a problem with receding gums, we can treat it with LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure).

Concerned about receding gums caused by smoking and vaping?

At Hutto Hippo Family Dental we can to help you with your concerns about oral health. Do you have questions about dental care? We’re glad to answer your questions. Our number is (512) 806-7740.