Saskatoon – Stephenson Orthodontics
Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people turning to electronic cigarettes as an alternative to traditional cigarettes. However, if you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, such as wearing braces or clear aligners, there are some important things you need to know about vaping and its impact on your oral health.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at vaping and orthodontics and explore what you need to know to protect your oral health.
What is Vaping?
Vaping involves inhaling aerosolized liquid (often referred to as “vapor”) that is generated by an electronic device, such as an e-cigarette or vape pen. The liquid used in vaping usually contains nicotine, flavourings, and other chemicals.
How Does Vaping Affect Orthodontic Treatment?
If you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, there are several ways in which vaping can impact your progress:
- Discolouration: Vaping can cause discolouration of the teeth and brackets, which can be difficult to remove. This can be especially problematic if you are wearing clear aligners, as discolouration can make them more noticeable.
- Slowed Healing: Vaping can slow down the healing process, which can prolong the length of your treatment. This is because the chemicals in e-cigarette liquid can damage the cells in your mouth and throat, making it harder for your body to heal.
- Gum Irritation: The chemicals in e-cigarette liquid can irritate the gums, causing them to become red and inflamed. This can be especially problematic if you are wearing braces, as the brackets and wires can amplify the irritation.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Vaping can cause tooth sensitivity, which can make it difficult to eat or drink certain things. This can be especially painful for people who have braces, as the brackets and wires can intensify the sensitivity.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Orthodontic Treatment While Vaping?
If you are undergoing orthodontic treatment and choose to vape, there are a few things that you can do to protect your oral health and ensure the best possible outcome for your treatment:
- Avoid Vaping While Wearing Clear Aligners: If you are wearing clear aligners, it’s best to avoid vaping while they are in your mouth. This will help to prevent discolouration and ensure that your aligners remain as inconspicuous as possible.
- Be Diligent About Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to help remove bacteria and food particles from your mouth. This can help to reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, which is especially important while you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
- Use Nicotine-Free E-Cigarettes: Nicotine is one of the chemicals in e-cigarette liquid that can be harmful to oral health. If you want to vape, consider using a nicotine-free e-cigarette liquid.
- See Your Orthodontist Regularly: Regular appointments with your orthodontist can help to ensure that your treatment is progressing as it should be. Your orthodontist can also offer advice on how to protect your oral health while vaping.
If you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, and even if you’re not, it is important to be aware of the potential impact that vaping can have on your oral and overall health. By following the tips outlined above, you can help to protect your oral health and ensure that your treatment is as effective as possible.
It is also important to note, that while the long-term effects of vaping are still being studied, there is some evidence to suggest that it may increase the risk of oral cancer. This is because the chemicals in e-cigarette liquid can damage the cells in the mouth and throat.
Essentially, there is nothing healthy about vaping. Vaping liquids include the ingredients propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, both of which are very damaging to tooth enamel, gum tissues, and saliva production. When your oral health is compromised, there is a significant increase in cavities, gum disease, tooth decay, tooth loss, and other oral health issues. Ensure you do your research and make the best informed decisions for your health and your smile 😀.
Come see us for your FREE consultation (no referral necessary!). Book below, @ www.drtooth.ca or call 306-653-3955!
Stephenson Orthodontics
301 The Tower at Midtown
201 1st Ave South
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
S7K 1J5
