For a long time, we have understood that smoking can negatively affect your oral health. With the rising popularity of vaping, it is important to understand that it can cause similar irreversible oral damage.
This damage can result in gum disease, gum tissue death, and in some cases, can also result in tooth loss. If you have braces, these negative effects on your oral health are an unnecessary risk. At King Orthodontics, we’ve put together the facts you need to know about braces and vaping.
It is possible that vaping can affect the success of your treatment. While e-cigarettes don’t have tobacco, they contain nicotine, which can pose a threat to your oral health. Nicotine can reduce the blood flow, causing your gums to recede and gum tissues to die. It may also cause swelling and inflammation of the gums, increased risk of cavities, and tooth sensitivity.
Tooth loss is also a risk. The bacteria and tooth decay, combined with the dry mouth caused by nicotine, creates the perfect environment for gum disease.
When your orthodontist determines if you are a good candidate for orthodontic treatment, they will evaluate the health of your gums and teeth. You must have a periodontal check-up with your general dentist before beginning treatment to ensure that your mouth is healthy.
Vaping can cause gum damage to accelerate, reducing your teeth and gums’ ability to respond well to orthodontic treatment. If you are vaping, your teeth will not move as fast, and treatment will take longer. You may also experience the tendency for teeth to move back into their previous positions after completing treatment caused by the higher risk of gum disease.
Orthodontic treatment is a major investment in your oral health that requires effort to create the healthy smile you’ve always wanted. It is best to avoid vaping to achieve the smile you want while keeping your mouth healthy.
When it comes to braces, King Orthodontics has the latest treatments to help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile. To learn more about our options for braces and to schedule your appointment, contact us today.
