Did you know that recent studies show E-Cigs to be just as harmful, if not more harmful, to your oral health as cigarettes? If you are using E-Cigs to quit smoking, you may want to reconsider. Vaping is now thought to be a leading contributor to a spectrum of oral health problems. Atlanta dentist Dr. Brenda Paulen encourages patients to quit tobacco products of all kinds for the benefit of their health.
Vaping, e-cigs, chewing tobacco and smoking are all known to increase the risk of:
- Oral cancer
- Gum disease
- Tooth loss.
A study conducted by the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry found that e-cigarette vapor resulted in comparable damage to gum tissue as tobacco smoke. The study exposed gum tissue of nonsmokers to e-cigarette smoke. The results showed that the vapors from e-cigs caused cells to release an inflammatory protein that aggravates stress in the cells. This stress results in the potential development of various oral diseases. E-cigarette flavoring showed signs of exacerbating the cell damage caused by the vapor. Menthol-flavored vapor showed signs of causing the most damage.
Another study performed by the Faculty of Dental Medicine at Laval University in Canada put gum cells in a chamber and stimulated vaping. The results showed that cells exposed to e-cig vape had a cell death rate of 18% after 2 days. Healthy gum cells not exposed to vape have a cell death rate of only 2%.
Protect Your Oral Health Sandy Springs, GA
Atlanta Proud Smiles focuses on the comprehensive oral health of all of our patients. We believe in healthy and functional oral foundations for a beautiful smile, and a healthy life. Dr. Paulen encourages patients to visit her at least twice a year for professional dental cleanings and a thorough oral health exam. Dr. Paulen will screen for signs of complex oral health concerns such as oral cancer and gum disease. Learn More.