Did you know that about half of adult Americans who are older than 30 have gum disease in some form? Despite being prevalent, it can be prevented by sticking to an oral hygiene routine, having consistent visits to your dentist, and breaking some unhealthy habits, like vaping CBD oil. Doing the latter daily may be harmful to your oral and gum health. Keep reading to learn the link between gum disease and vaping CBD oil.
Does Vaping CBD Oil Increase My Risk of Gum Disease?
Although vaping is a safer alternative to smoking, that doesn’t mean there are no risks to it. It may still be harmful to your smile, but more research is needed to understand the long- and short-term effects of it on your mouth. Here is what current studies have found:
- Excess Bacteria: For your oral health to be strong, there needs to be a balance between the good and bad microbes. When the unwanted bacteria start to overtake the other, then you increase your risk for gum disease and tooth decay.
- Irritated or Inflamed Gums: It’s suggested that vaping can trigger an inflammatory response in the soft tissues in your mouth. When this is ongoing, combined with the bacteria in your mouth, you may be more prone to an infection in your gums.
- Dry Mouth: Propylene glycol is commonly used in e-cigarette devices. It is colorless, nearly odorless, and is faintly sweet. This chemical makes your mouth dry, which lets harmful microorganisms in your mouth linger longer, increasing your risk of them attacking your teeth and gums.
How Can I Keep My Teeth and Gums Healthy?
While vaping can make you more prone to gum disease, there are things you can do to help protect your oral health. It’s important to keep up with your dental hygiene routine. That means brushing twice a day and flossing at least once to get rid of harmful bacteria in your mouth. Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help ensure you get everything.
This is only one part of the routine, as regular checkups with your dentist are key for catching any dental problems, like gum disease, in their earliest stages. You should also drink plenty of water to help keep your mouth moist and wash away harmful bacteria. Lastly, consider limiting how often you vape or quitting the habit entirely.
While you may be at a higher risk for periodontal disease, consider following these tips above. Doing so can help ensure your smile stays strong and healthy while lowering your chances of developing any dental problems.
About the Author
Dr. Ben Omrani has over 20 years of experience helping his patients get the best smile they can have. He has years of training that let him give the San Juan Capistrano community the high-quality care they deserve. By offering a wide range of services, such as gum disease treatment, you can restore your oral health and protect it with his help. If your gums tend to bleed when you brush and floss, schedule an appointment or call (949) 661-2052.