As the owner of South Coast Orthodontics in Australia, I am deeply concerned about the widespread use of vaping in public places such as bus stops, train stations and schools across the Illawarra region. The sight of teenagers and adults engaging in vaping, particularly when they are passing vapes around in groups, is troubling. While I’ll refrain from delving into the political and social aspects of this issue, I feel compelled to shed light on the significant oral and orthodontic health risks associated with vaping.
Initially developed as a tool to help smokers quit traditional cigarettes, vaping has gained popularity as a perceived “safer” alternative. This practice involves inhaling vaporised liquid through a device that heats a mixture of nicotine, flavourings, and chemicals to create an aerosol.
Despite claims that vaping products contain fewer harmful chemicals than traditional cigarettes, the true composition and health implications of the vapour remain uncertain. The exhaled vapour contains nanoparticles, volatile organic compounds, carbonyls, heavy metals, and nicotine, which are far from harmless water vapour.
Recent data has revealed a troubling connection between vaping and lung injuries, chronic diseases, and asthma. Reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States have documented numerous cases of lung injuries and fatalities linked to vaping.
The marketing tactics employed by vape companies, such as enticing flavours and eye-catching packaging, have led to a surge in e-cigarette use among young adults, particularly females, in Australia.
The impact of vaping on oral health is a significant concern. Dry mouth resulting from vaping can contribute to dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and oral infections. The disruption of the balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria in the mouth due to vaping may elevate the risk of developing periodontal disease.
The combination of dry mouth and exposure to vaping chemicals may exacerbate dental caries and oral lesions. Furthermore, there is a potential association between vaping and oral cancer that warrants attention.
Moreover, there is a need to explore the full extent of vaping’s effects on tooth movement. Research suggests that nicotine present in vaping liquids may possess vasoconstrictive properties, which could impede blood flow to tissues, including the periodontal ligament encasing the teeth. This diminished blood circulation may hinder essential cellular functions necessary for orthodontic tooth adjustments, potentially leading to increased alveolar bone loss and root erosion.
This may sound complex, but the takeaway is easy. Stop vaping.
Dental professionals across Wollongong, the Illawarra, Sydney and Australia are committed to addressing the risks associated with vaping. Needless to say, the South Coast Orthodontics team and I are committed to educating you about better lifestyle choices that improve your oral health and orthodontic journey.
Warm regards,
Dr. Kamal Ahmed
P.S Why did the pharmacist walk on her tiptoes? She didn’t want to wake the sleeping pills.
