How will vaping affect my porcelain veneers? I quit smoking cigarettes in 2020, and unfortunately, I let a friend introduce me to vaping last month. I am trying to stop vaping, and I know my health is more important than my veneers. How much harm am I doing to the veneers? Thank you. Kristof from NJ
Kristof,
Thank you for your question. We commend you for being able to stop smoking cigarettes and encourage you to continue trying to break the vaping habit. We will answer your question about porcelain veneers.
Will Vaping Affect Porcelain Veneers?
Vaping will affect your porcelain veneers because vaping liquid can compromise your oral health. Vaping liquid contains:
- Water
- Nicotine
- Flavorings
- Propylene glycol or vegetable glycerin
How Does Vaping Liquid Affect Your Porcelain Veneers?
Vaping affects your porcelain veneers because it contains nicotine, which decreases blood flow to your gums. Your gums surround the porcelain veneers that a dentist has bonded to your teeth. Damage to your gums and teeth will affect the comfort and longevity of your veneers.
According to a March 2020 iScience article on vaping and oral health risks, the chemicals in vaping liquid increase periodontal pathogens and can lead to oral health issues, including:
- Increase gum-pocket depth
- Inflammation
- Bleeding gums
Inflamed, receding, and bleeding gum tissue creates an unhealthy frame for your veneers. As gum disease advances, it can loosen teeth and destroy the supporting bone.
Protect Your Porcelain Veneers
Protect your porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are custom porcelain shells for your teeth that are virtually stain resistant. Veneers are harder than tooth enamel. Still, if your teeth behind the veneers and the gums around them are unhealthy, it will affect your veneers.
You can protect your porcelain veneers in these ways:
- Be diligent about flossing and brushing between your teeth
- Schedule regular dental cleanings and exams
- Avoid habits that damage your oral health, including vaping
If you began vaping last month, now is a good time to quit and protect your oral health and investment in porcelain veneers. If you struggle to break the habit, talk to your medical doctor about resources to help you stop vaping.
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