You may have switched to vaping as an alternative to smoking, or perhaps you just enjoy the flavours. Whatever your reason, you might have questions about how it affects your oral health. Our team at Springbank Dental Centre is here to help you understand vaping’s effects on your smile.
Yes, the ingredients in vape products can lead to yellow or brown discolouration on your teeth over time. While vape aerosol is different from tobacco smoke, it does contain substances that can stain your tooth enamel. Fortunately, there are ways to get stains off your teeth.
The Link Between Vaping & Tooth Colour
A few different aspects of vaping contribute to tooth stains. Nicotine itself is colourless, but when it mixes with oxygen, it turns yellow. It can then seep into the tiny pores of your tooth enamel, causing stains from the inside out.
The vape juice itself can also play a part. Darker-coloured liquids, like those with coffee, cola, or dark berry flavours, contain colouring agents. These colours can leave deposits on your teeth, leading to surface stains.
Finally, the vapour itself creates a sticky film on your teeth. This residue makes it easier for plaque and stain-causing bacteria to latch on, which can cause discolouration.
More Than Stains: Other Oral Health Effects
The impact of vaping can extend beyond the colour of your teeth. One common side effect is dry mouth, as vaping reduces the amount of saliva you produce.
With less saliva, your mouth becomes a more welcoming place for bacteria. This can put you at a higher risk for both cavities and gum inflammation, symptoms of which include your gums feeling tender or looking redder than usual.
Signs Your Dental Team May Notice
What a Dentist Sees
During a dental check-up, a professional can spot early signs of potential issues that you may not see yourself. For instance, stains caused by vaping often have a distinct yellowish or brownish pattern that a trained eye can recognize.
Your dental team also looks closely at your gum tissue. A thorough dental exam involves identifying subtle changes in colour or texture that may point to inflammation or irritation.
How to Manage Stains & Protect Your Smile
Steps You Can Take at Home
You can take a few simple steps to help manage stains and support your oral health. For instance, brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste helps scrub away surface stains and plaque. Following proper brushing techniques is also important for removing buildup from between your teeth.
It’s also helpful to rinse your mouth with water right after you vape. This can help wash away some of the sticky residue before it has a chance to settle on your enamel.
Professional Dental Care Options
Regular professional cleanings are very effective at removing the surface stains and hardened plaque that daily brushing can’t tackle. A dental hygienist can polish your teeth, which can also make them look brighter.
If discolouration runs deeper, there are several factors to consider before whitening. A professional can help you make the right choice. In-office treatments can lift stains from within the enamel, helping to restore a brighter, more even tooth colour.
A Healthy Smile Plan with Your Dentist in SW Calgary
Having an open conversation with your dental team allows them to provide you with effective care. Regular check-ups and cleanings are the foundation of a healthy smile.
Our team at Springbank Dental Centre can work with you to create a plan for keeping your teeth and gums in good shape. Schedule a visit with us to discuss how you can achieve your smile goals.
