Medical expert reveals alarming new side effect of vaping
Vape ingredients linked to dry mouth and cavities
- Dental surgeon Smita Mehra says she has observed a concerning rise in oral health issues, including cavities and gum problems, among young people due to e-cigarette use.
- These dental problems, typically associated with older adults who smoke, are now appearing much earlier in young vapers because of the frequency of use.
- Vape liquid ingredients like propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin contribute to dry mouth and hinder saliva's natural protective function, leading to increased plaque and tooth decay, Dr Mehra says.
- Nicotine in e-liquids reduces saliva flow and blood supply to the gums, exacerbating inflammation, bleeding, and infection, with distinct patterns of tartar and staining seen in regular vapers.
- Studies indicate vapers are 80 per cent more likely to experience dry mouth, and youth vaping is linked to a higher risk of smoking, asthma, poor mental health, and other health complications.