Vaping is wrecking oral health: Experts reveal the alarming consequences

India has enacted extensive ecigarette prohibitions to shield young people from the risks associated with vaping Though little is known about their usage habits educated youth especially Gen Z groups seem to be a rather high user group despite these bansAs vaping and ecigarettes continue to dominate the habits of some Gen Z groups in India new concerns are emerging about its impact on health including the oral health of the youngWhile the dangers of vaping to lung health have been widely discussed experts are now spotlighting an equally pressing issue including ones oral healthInhaling vaporised liquid from electronic cigarettes is known as vaping and its frequently thought of as a safer alternative to smoking Known by several names as vape juice or eliquid this liquid has flavorings chemicals and nicotine Although nicotine is wellknown for being addictive current studies have focused on the effects of other ingredients on oral healthThe vapor produced by ecigarettes contains chemicals that can irritate the gums causing redness swelling and bleeding Over time this inflammation can progress to more severe periodontal disease which may result in tooth loss if left untreatedExperts explain that Xerostomia or dry mouth is one of the main issues with vaping One popular element in eliquids is propylene glycol which has a reputation for lowering saliva production Because saliva removes food particles from teeth neutralises acids and gives teeth vital nutrients it is critical for maintaining oral health Reduced salivary flow has been linked to an increased risk of gum disease dental decay and foul breathDr Dhananjay Hemmady from Aakaar Dentistry told midday Vaping can be highly addictive mainly due to the nicotine in eliquids which leads to physical dependence It reinforces oral fixation making the habit hard to break as users become attached to the physical act of vaping This routine can develop into a behavioral addiction where the act of holding and inhaling the device becomes ingrained Additionally vaping is often linked to social and psychological triggers making it harder to quit While seen as a safer alternative to smoking vaping poses significant risks for oral addiction due to its addictive nature and habitual aspectsVaping devices have the potential to produce chemical burns or oral sores because of their high temperatures After using ecigarettes some users have complained of developing sore patches ulcers or other types of mouth irritation If these lesions are not adequately handled they may get infected and cause painVaping negatively impacts oral hygiene by causing dry mouth which reduces saliva production essential for cleaning the mouth and preventing cavities The chemicals in eliquids can irritate gum tissue leading to inflammation and an increased risk of gum disease Vaping also alters the oral microbiome potentially leading to more harmful bacteria growth which can increase the chances of developing oral infections Additionally nicotine restricts blood flow to the gums impairing their ability to heal and fight off infections further heightening the risk of oral diseases such as periodontitis Dr Ankita Gehi from Aakaar Dentistry told middayA 2024 study published in a dentistry journal found that people who vape regularly are 3037 more likely to experience gum disease compared to nonvapers Another study states that vape users have a higher prevalence of dry mouth and related oral health issues compared to traditional smokers and nonsmokersDr Dhananjay said To quit vaping one can gradually reduce nicotine intake seek support from friends or counseling and use nicotine replacement therapies like patches or gum Developing healthy habits staying active and avoiding triggers that prompt vaping can also help in managing cravings and successfully breaking the addictionDental experts advise consumers to take the following precautions against the possible hazards of vapingFrequent dental checkups Seeing the dentist regularly can help identify and treat oral health problems early on Dentists can offer guidance on how to prevent gum disease and manage dry mouthHydration Maintaining adequate hydration can lessen some of the symptoms of decreased salivary flow Frequently consuming water can aid in preserving oral moistureMaintaining Good Oral Hygiene Using an antibacterial mouthwash and brushing and flossing twice a day will help lower the risk of gum disease and cavitiesLimit Vaping Some of the detrimental impacts on oral health can be mitigated by cutting back on vaping frequency or thinking about options for quittingThe banThe Indian government enacted the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Production Manufacture Import Export Transport Sale Distribution Storage and Advertisement Act PECA on December 5 2019 to ban ecigarettes and similar devices The law was enacted to protect public health and prevent harm The PECA Act prohibits the manufacturing importing exporting transporting selling distributing advertising and possession of ecigarettesCrackdown in MumbaiFollowing the ban by the Government of India Mumbai Police had last year launched a massive crackdown on the sale of ecigarettes and vapes in the city and multiple raids were conducted across the cityAn official said There were strict orders on the crackdown on vapes and ecigarettes raids were conducted on several shops in south Mumbai and shops in posh areas of western suburbs including Bandra and Juhu During these raids thousands of ecigarettes and vapes were seized valuing lakhs of rupeesDisclaimer This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional medical advice