Vaping
What is vaping?
Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling the aerosol, often referred to as vapor, which is produced by electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). Vaping looks a lot like smoking a regular cigarette, but instead of burning tobacco, users are heating up a liquid, and creating a fine vapor that is inhaled.
What is in the vapor being inhaled?
Studies found that vapor may contain chemicals that are known to cause cancer or serious lung diseases, like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Some sweet flavors may increase the risk of developing cavities. The vapor in e-cigarettes contains nicotine and it is addictive.
What are e-cigarettes?
Electronic cigarettes are battery-powered devices that can deliver nicotine and flavorings to the user in the form of an aerosol (vapor).
· Many shapes and sizes;
· Many different names: e-cigs, vape pens, and others;
· Made to look like regular cigarettes, cigars, pens, USB sticks and other everyday items;
· Produced an aerosol (vapor) by heating a liquid that contains nicotine;
· Can be used to deliver marijuana and other drugs.
Health risks of vaping
· Lung cancer
· Gastrointestinal cancer
· Pancreatic cancer
· Heart diseases
· Respiratory diseases
Dental and oral health risks of vaping
· Deterioration of tooth enamel, cavities, periodontal disease, gum recession, tooth loss and other dental health problems;
· White spots on the teeth and decalcifications that show the beginning of enamel softening;
· Red or white patches on the gums or inside of the cheek may be precancerous cells;
· Oral thrush on the tongue or mouth.
Some tips to quit vaping
· The first step is to identify the reasons that motivate you to quit;
· Pick a day to quit vaping. Put it on the calendar and tell supportive friends and family that you're quitting on that day;
· Consider working with a professional to get medical and/or emotional support;
· Get rid of all vaping supplies;
· Download tools (apps and texting programs) to your phone that can help with cravings and give encouragement while you try to stop vaping;
· The signs of withdrawal are strongest in the first few days after quitting. You may experience the following signs of withdrawal:
-Feeling tired, cranky, angry, or depressed
-trouble concentrating
-trouble sleeping
-hunger
-restlessness
-headaches
If possible, avoid places and people that trigger the urge to vape. If you feel the urge to vape, try these things instead:
· Chew sugar-free gum or drink water;
· Text, call, or hang out with a friend who will support you;
· Listen to your favorite playlist;
· Yoga or meditation;
· Go for a walk or jog;
· Take 10 deep breaths;
· Keep busy with a hobby, like drawing or playing musical instrument;
· Go somewhere where vaping isn't allowed.
Long term effects of vaping are unclear, but research and reports of health effects suggest that vaping may be harmful. More researches are needed. If you have started vaping, talk to your dentist or physician about ways to quit.
Dr. Anna Lee is a general & cosmetic dentist in Glendora, CA. She is experienced in all phases of dentistry. She treats patients of all ages. If you have started vaping, talk to Dr. Anna Lee about ways to quit. Call our office for a dental checkup or a consultation at 626-335-5114 or visit us at www.annaleedds.com