Dentist issues warning over ‘Vaper’s Tongue’ this Christmas

Whether in a bid to give up smoking or simply for a bit of fun, many of us have picked up a brightly-coloured vape.

But there's a slew of evidence suggesting that regularly puffing on pineapple-flavoured air could be seriously damaging to our health.

While vaping is said to be better for you than traditional cigarettes, the dangerous chemicals produced in e-cigarettes can cause lung disease as well as various heart problems.

Now, a dentist has issued a warning over something called 'Vaper's Tongue' and it could be enough to make you bin vape immediately.

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'Vaper's Tongue' refers to a condition where a vaper loses the ability to taste vape juice. It is a nearly universal phenomenon that typically lasts for a couple of hours to days. However, some vapers have claimed it can persist for weeks.

But, while 'Vaper's Tongue' is often seen as a mere inconvenience getting in the way of fully enjoying a vape's flavour, Dr Abdul Azizi, Principle Dentist at Harley Private Dentist clinic, explains that it can actually be much more serious of an issue.

"Vaping poses several potential dangers to oral health," he says. "Firstly, the heat and chemicals in e-liquids can lead to dry mouth."

This is what causes 'Vaper's Tongue,' the increased mouth breathing required to inhale a vape drying up your saliva. But beyond discomfort and a lack of taste, Dr Azizi warns that it can 'increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.'

He also shared other oral issues that vapers may face.

"Secondly, nicotine in e-cigarettes can constrict blood vessels, impairing gum health and potentially leading to tooth loss.

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"Additionally, the chemicals in e-liquids, including flavouring agents, may irritate oral tissues, causing discomfort and inflammation. Vaping can also contribute to tooth staining and wear, while increased teeth grinding due to nicotine stimulation can lead to dental problems."

While Dr Azizi obviously recommends giving up vaping altogether, he says there are several things you can do to mitigate the oral health problems it can cause.

Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily is vital to help prevent tooth decay, gum disease and staining.

He also recommends visiting your dentist regularly to monitor you oral health and address any issues as they arise.

On top of this, stay hydrated to help promote saliva production and try chewing sugar free gum to further combat dry mouth.

And, if you choose to vape, try to select e-liquids that are free from harmful additives and chemicals, avoiding any with a high nicotine content and potentially harmful flavouring agents.

Topics: Health, News, Vaping, UK News

Bec Oakes