Emergency Dentist In Encinitas Discusses Smoking, Vaping & Your Oral Health

Today, everyone is aware of the fact that smoking affects our health negatively in more than one way. However, people still don’t realize the harm it causes and continue smoking. When you smoke, it is your mouth where the smoke hits first and the effects of smoke can be readily seen in a person’s mouth. Also, in the recent times, vaporizing or vaping flavored nicotine juice has become a trend. Though vaping is considered as a better alternative to smoking cigarettes, it can still have several negative effects, especially in your mouth. Let’s have a look at the effects of smoking and vaping on oral health.

The Effects of Smoking Cigarettes

According to the dentist in Encinitas, it’s a fact that cigarette smoke contains thousands of harmful chemicals and many of them are carcinogens. When a person smokes, these chemicals first enter their mouth, tongue, teeth, and cheeks. And, because of this, the effects of smoking are evident in the mouth. Not only does cigarette smoke stain your teeth, but it can also make your teeth yellowish in color.

You are also the higher risk of developing tooth decay and the buildup of harmful bacteria on your teeth. You can develop gum disease, which can lead to receding gums and bad breath, says the dentist in Encinitas, CA.

The Effect of Vaping

Vaping may not cause bad breath, discolored teeth or buildup of plaque, but the vaping juices contain nicotine, which reduces blood flow and can negatively impact your mouth’s ability to fight off harmful bacteria. This puts you at a higher risk of developing severe infections and periodontal disease. Some e-cigarettes are known for causing cellular damage in your mouth. So vaping e-cigarettes can be as harmful as regular ones, says the dentist in 92024.

Impact on Healing

Research has shown that there is a direct correlation between smoking and slower wound healing after surgery. Smoking reduces oxygen levels in your body and without proper oxygen levels, wounds take longer to heal. Open wounds are at higher risk of infection. Thus, smoking restricts your healing process.