Dentist reveals nicotine replacement gum, sachets and vapes could have devastating effect as warning to ex-smokers

Today, smokers across the UK are being encouraged to find out how to quit the habit for good, to mark National No Smoking Day 2024.

However, a British dentist has warned vapers and ex-smokers that cigarette alternatives can also cause damage to their teeth and gums.

Dr. Deepak Aulak, founder of AI-powered dental app Toothfairy and This Morning regular, said: ‘Smoking destroys lives, so it’s commendable if people want to quit.

‘Your oral health will start to improve within twenty minutes of stubbing out that last cigarette, but it’s not nearly as easy as it is for many ex-smokers, who struggle and suffer from cravings.

‘Many are turning to nicotine replacement products to quit cigarettes, or have switched to vaping in the belief that it is a healthier alternative.

‘Most worrying are the many young people who have taken up vaping with seemingly little thought about the long-term consequences for both their mouths and their bodies.’

Adding: ‘If you are trying to quit or want advice about using e-cigarettes and other nicotine products, ask your dentist.’

The government aims to make England and Wales smoke-free by 2030, and Scotland by 2034. From yellow and brown spots to tooth loss, gum disease and mouth cancer, the dangers of smoking are well documented.

But while figures are falling, around 6.4 million British adults continue to smoke and more than 3,000 people died from oral cancer last year.

National No Smoking Day aims to provide support and encouragement to those on their way to quitting. Many of them are turning to alternatives such as vaping and nicotine replacement gum.

Read on to hear Dr.’s advice. Deepak to discover if you are considering some of the most popular smoking alternatives.

VAPES AND E-CIGARETTES

Once advertised as the ‘safer’ alternative to smoking, greater awareness is now growing around the risks of vaping and e-cigarettes.

Thanks to a raft of recent research and analysis, it is now well established that electronic cigarettes – which use vapor instead of smoke – are linked to a range of alarming risks, from serious blood vessel damage to permanent lung scarring.

Vape juice or e-liquids – whether nicotine-free or not – contain metals, ‘volatile organic compounds’ and cancer-causing chemicals.

E-cigarette users may experience ‘vape tongue’ or a temporary loss of taste.

Dr. Deepak said: ‘The bottom line is that it is better for your mouth if you don’t smoke or don’t use nicotine replacement products at all.

‘At a time when Britain is in the midst of a dental health crisis, it is particularly worrying to see so many young people using vapes – many who have probably never smoked in the first place.’

A 2021 dental report found that while the risk of periodontal (gum) disease was lower for vapers than for smokers, it was still higher than for non-smokers.

Meanwhile, another study concluded that e-cigarette use has a ‘quantifiable’ impact on the natural bacteria in the mouth, known as the microbiome.

The warning comes after Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced a new tax on vaping in his spring budget as part of the government’s push for a ‘smoke-free generation’.

The price of the strongest e-cigarette liquid will rise by up to £3 under the Chancellor’s plan to discourage non-smokers from becoming addicted to cheap nicotine-filled gadgets.

NICOTINE BAGS

Another popular alternative for those trying to kick the habit is nicotine pouches.

They are placed in the mouth, placed between the lip and the gums. The pouches slowly release nicotine into the bloodstream to help ex-smokers combat cravings.

Although brands vary, some contain a variety of ingredients, from stabilizers to fillers and flavorings, as well as artificial sweeteners.

The dentist warns that there are a variety of health problems associated with dental follicles, from tooth decay to dry mouth, throat irritation, bad breath, receding gums and chipped or broken teeth.

Nicotine pouches also speed up the process of gum disease.

Dr. Deepak explained: ‘Your mouth is a delicate environment and the presence of a pouch in which substances are introduced will disrupt the natural bacteria.

‘Seek advice from your dentist if you are a user or are concerned about the effects on your oral health.’

Users are advised to regularly change the location of the pouch in their mouth, limit its use and try to reduce talking during use, due to friction caused against the gums.

NICOTINE GUM

Finally, the dentist warns against nicotine gum, as there are some worrying side effects associated with its use.

Although nicotine gum is better for oral health than smoking, sores on the tongue and cheeks and dry mouth can result from regular use.

Nicotine constricts blood vessels, so direct contact with the gums can also lead to gingivitis or gum disease.

Dr. Deepak added, ‘Chewing sugar-free gum can even be good for your oral health as it increases the production of saliva, which helps remove unwanted acid and bacteria.

‘Although that chewing process is not necessarily affected, the presence of nicotine can aggravate the gums and lead to problems in the longer term.’

The dentist’s advice comes after news in January that disposable vapes will be banned in a bid to protect children’s health and prevent them from becoming ‘addicted for life’.

The number of children using vaping has tripled in the past three years, thanks to disposable devices that come in a range of bright colors and tempting flavours.

The ban is expected to come into effect in late 2024 or early 2025.