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3 Michigan Locations:
Canton: (734) 844-1300
South Lyon: (248) 437-1010
W. Bloomfield: (248) 855-8000

3 Pediatric Dental Facts Every Parent Should Know

Posts Tagged ‘Michigan’

 

3 Pediatric Dental Facts Every Parent Should Know

Posted on: February 25th, 2025 by admin

As a parent, you want the best for your child’s health, and that includes their smile! While many parents know the importance of brushing and flossing, there are some lesser-known pediatric dental facts that can make a big difference in your child’s oral health.

1. Cavities Are the Most Common Chronic Childhood Disease

Did you know that cavities (tooth decay) are more common in children than asthma or allergies? According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 5 children between the ages of 2 and 5 have untreated cavities. The best way to prevent them is with regular dental visits, fluoride treatments, and good oral hygiene at home.

2. Baby Teeth Matter More Than You Think

Some parents believe that baby teeth aren’t important since they’ll fall out anyway. However, primary teeth play a crucial role in speech development, nutrition, and guiding permanent teeth into place. Losing baby teeth too early due to decay can lead to misalignment and orthodontic issues later on.

3. Not All Kids Need Fluoride Toothpaste Right Away

While fluoride is essential for strong teeth, children under three should only use a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). For kids aged three and older, a pea-sized amount is recommended. Using too much fluoride at a young age can lead to fluorosis, which affects enamel development.

At Lifetime Dental, we’re here to help your child build a healthy, confident smile! Schedule their next visit today.

 

#Dentist #MyDentist #WestBloomfield #Canton #SouthLyon #Dentists #Teeth

The Future of Dentistry

Posted on: February 12th, 2025 by admin

The Future of Dentistry: Cutting-Edge Technology at Lifetime Dental

 

Are you searching for a top-rated dentist in Metro Detroit Michigan? Are you looking for a dentist who provides state-of-the-art dental care?

At Lifetime Dental, we are committed to offering the latest advancements in cosmetic and general dentistry, ensuring every patient receives the most precise, comfortable, and effective treatments. Whether you need a routine dental cleaning, Zoom teeth whitening, Invisalign®, or dental implants, our cutting-edge technology ensures the best results.

Advanced Dental Technology for a Healthier Smile

✔ Perfect for cosmetic dental treatments in West Bloomfield, South Lyon and Canton
✔ Personalized digital previews before treatment
✔ Natural, beautiful results designed just for you

Laser Dentistry: Painless & Precise Treatments

Our advanced laser technology allows for minimally invasive gum contouring and periodontal care with:
✔ Faster healing times
✔ Virtually painless procedures
✔ No need for stitches or traditional surgical tools

If you need a cosmetic dentist or general dentist in Metro Detroit, contact Lifetime Dental today., laser dentistry ensures a more comfortable experience.

✅ State-of-the-art dental technology for precise, pain-free treatments
✅ Highly skilled cosmetic and general dentists
✅ Personalized treatment plans tailored to your dental goals
✅ Convenient scheduling & insurance-friendly services

Unveiling Your Dream Smile: Cosmetic Dentistry Options with Lifetime Dental

Posted on: January 30th, 2024 by admin

 

Your smile is a powerful expression of confidence and personality, and at Lifetime Dental Group, we believe that everyone deserves to have a smile they truly love. If you’ve been dreaming of a radiant, picture-perfect smile, our cosmetic dentistry options are designed to turn your dreams into reality. In this blog post, we’ll explore the exciting world of cosmetic dentistry and how our skilled team can help you achieve the smile you’ve always envisioned.

Teeth Whitening for a Dazzling Glow:
Over time, factors like coffee, tea, and lifestyle choices can contribute to tooth discoloration. Our professional teeth whitening treatments are a quick and effective way to brighten your smile, leaving you with a dazzling and confidence-boosting glow.

Porcelain Veneers:
For those seeking a transformative change, porcelain veneers offer a versatile solution. These custom-made, wafer-thin shells are bonded to the front surface of your teeth, concealing imperfections such as stains, chips, or gaps, and creating a flawless, natural-looking smile.

Invisible Braces for Subtle Alignment:
Straightening your teeth doesn’t have to involve conspicuous metal braces. Invisalign, our invisible braces option, offers a discreet and comfortable way to achieve a beautifully aligned smile. This innovative orthodontic solution uses clear aligners to gradually shift your teeth into their desired positions.

Dental Implants for a Seamless Smile Restoration:
Missing teeth can impact both your oral health and your confidence. Dental implants provide a permanent and natural-looking solution. Our skilled professionals at Lifetime Dental Group can seamlessly restore your smile by surgically placing implants that mimic the function and appearance of natural teeth.

Cosmetic Bonding for Quick Fixes:
Cosmetic bonding is an excellent option for minor imperfections such as small chips, cracks, or gaps. Using a tooth-colored composite resin, our team can quickly and skillfully enhance the aesthetics of your smile in a single visit.

Full Smile Makeovers:
For a comprehensive transformation, our full smile makeover combines various cosmetic procedures to address multiple concerns and create a harmonious, radiant smile that suits your unique features and preferences.

Your dream smile is within reach, and at Lifetime Dental Group, we’re here to make it a reality. Our cosmetic dentistry options cater to a variety of preferences and concerns, ensuring that you can achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Schedule a consultation with our experienced team, and let’s embark on a personalized journey to enhance your smile and boost your confidence.

Remember, a beautiful smile is a reflection of a happy, healthy you!

#LifetimeDental #CosmeticDentistry #DreamSmile #SmileMakeover #ConfidenceInEverySmile

Smiles Above the Rest: Why Lifetime Dental is Your Top Choice for Dentistry in Canton

Posted on: October 1st, 2023 by admin

Choosing the right dentist is a crucial decision for your oral health journey, and in Canton, Michigan, Lifetime Dental stands out as a beacon of excellence. As your dedicated dental partner, we take pride in providing unparalleled care that goes beyond expectations. In this blog post, let’s explore why Lifetime Dental is the best dentist office in Canton, offering a unique blend of expertise, compassion, and innovation.

Comprehensive, Patient-Centric Care:
At Lifetime Dental, we prioritize your overall well-being. Our commitment to comprehensive care means that we address not only your immediate dental needs but also consider your long-term oral health goals. We take the time to listen to your concerns, ensuring a personalized and patient-centric approach to every aspect of your dental care.

Experienced and Skilled Dental Professionals:
Our team of experienced dental professionals brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to the practice. From general dentistry to specialized treatments, we are equipped to meet a diverse range of dental needs. Continuing education is a priority for our team, ensuring that we stay abreast of the latest advancements in dentistry to provide you with the best possible care.

Cutting-Edge Technology for Superior Treatment:
Lifetime Dental embraces state-of-the-art dental technologies to enhance the quality and efficiency of our treatments. From digital diagnostics and 3D imaging to advanced treatment modalities like laser dentistry, our commitment to innovation ensures that you receive the benefits of the latest advancements in dental care.

Comfortable and Modern Facilities:
We understand that a comfortable environment plays a significant role in your dental experience. Our modern, inviting facilities are designed to put you at ease from the moment you walk through our doors. Our treatment rooms are equipped with the latest technology, creating an atmosphere that reflects our dedication to excellence.

Transparent Communication and Education:
Transparent communication is a cornerstone of our patient-centered approach. We believe in keeping you well-informed about your oral health, treatment options, and financial considerations. Our team is always ready to answer your questions, ensuring that you feel empowered and confident in making decisions about your dental care.

Community-Focused, Family-Friendly Practice:
Lifetime Dental is more than just a dental office; we are a part of the Canton community. We value the relationships we build with our patients and their families, fostering a sense of trust and reliability. Our family-friendly atmosphere makes dental visits enjoyable for patients of all ages, creating a positive impact on the oral health of our community.

Lifetime Dental in Canton, Michigan, stands out as the premier choice for comprehensive, compassionate, and innovative dental care. Our commitment to excellence, experienced professionals, and patient-focused approach make us the best dentist office in the area. Schedule your appointment with us today and experience the difference that a dedicated and caring dental team can make in your smile journey.

Remember, your smile deserves the best, and at Lifetime Dental, we’re here to deliver just that!

#LifetimeDental #CantonDentist #TopChoiceDentistry #PatientCenteredCare #InnovativeDentistry

Unraveling the Importance of Flossing: A Lifelong Commitment to Oral Health with Lifetime Dental

Posted on: September 1st, 2023 by admin

 

Maintaining optimal oral health is a commitment that pays off for a lifetime. At Lifetime Dental Group, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge and habits that contribute to their well-being. Today, let’s delve into the unsung hero of oral care – flossing. Often underestimated, regular flossing is a crucial step towards achieving a healthy, radiant smile.

The Importance of Flossing:

Beyond the Brush:
While brushing is essential for cleaning the surfaces of your teeth, it often cannot reach the tight spaces between them. Dental floss becomes the unsung hero, effectively cleaning those areas where your toothbrush bristles can’t reach.

Plaque Patrol:
Dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, forms continuously on your teeth. Flossing is your powerful ally in removing plaque from between teeth and along the gumline, preventing it from hardening into tartar, which can lead to gum disease.

Gum Health Matters:
Flossing isn’t just about preventing cavities; it’s also about maintaining healthy gums. Regular flossing helps in preventing gingivitis, reducing inflammation, and promoting strong, resilient gums.

Cavity Defense:
Cavities often develop between teeth where bacteria can thrive. By flossing daily, you remove the food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities and promoting overall dental health.

Fresh Breath Assurance:
Flossing is an effective way to remove food particles that can get trapped between teeth, contributing to bad breath. Incorporating flossing into your daily routine ensures a fresher breath and boosts your confidence in social interactions.

Tips for Effective Flossing:

Choose the Right Floss:
Different types of dental floss are available, including waxed and unwaxed, flavored and unflavored. Choose the one that you find most comfortable to use consistently.

Technique Matters:
Gently slide the floss between your teeth, following the natural curve of each tooth. Be cautious not to snap or force the floss, as this can harm your gums. Curve the floss into a C-shape around each tooth and slide it up and down.

Make it a Routine:
Establishing a daily flossing routine is key. Whether you prefer flossing before or after brushing, consistency is crucial for reaping the long-term benefits.

 

At Lifetime Dental Group, we encourage our patients to view oral health as an ongoing commitment. Flossing is a simple yet powerful practice that can significantly impact your overall well-being. By embracing this habit, you’re taking a proactive step towards a lifetime of healthy smiles. Schedule an appointment with us, and let’s work together to achieve and maintain optimal oral health for you and your family.

Remember, a few minutes spent flossing each day can lead to a lifetime of smiles!

#LifetimeDental #OralHealth #Flossing #DentalCare #HealthySmiles

Tips For New Invisalign Patients

Posted on: April 2nd, 2023 by admin

 

Invisalign is an FDA-approved treatment that can effectively straighten teeth with a series of clear aligners. It is an alternative to braces that uses clear aligner trays to move your teeth gradually. The aligners are removable and virtually invisible, which means most people won’t even know you’re wearing them. Instead of wires and brackets, Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to shift your teeth into place. When you visit us, our dentist in Arizona will create a customized treatment plan based on your needs.

Here are a few tips if you are new to Invisalign:

invisalignUse and Care for Your Aligners

Your Invisalign aligners are removable. While you need to wear them for at least 20 to 22 hours every day, removing them to eat and brush your teeth is a normal part of caring for them.

Since Invisalign is made of clear plastic, you can safely clean them with a toothbrush and mild soap. Clean your aligners every time that you brush your teeth, and soak them for a few minutes in a mix of water and isopropyl alcohol once a week to remove more bacteria.

While your aligners are removable, you should wear them as much as possible. Removing them may mean that your teeth fall out of alignment, which is counterproductive to straightening.

Remove While Eating

You can take out your aligners when eating. Simply remove them, eat, and put them back in. While you can take them out, you should only do so when eating and brushing. Leaving them out for long periods of time can jeopardize your treatment.

Brush and Floss Your Teeth Daily

Practice proper dental hygiene with Invisalign aligners. Although you can remove the aligners to brush and floss, you still need to brush and floss your teeth daily. This is the best way to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.

You should floss your teeth at least once per day. It can be difficult with Invisalign aligners on your teeth. However, you can still floss your teeth effectively. Use an interdental brush or floss threader to floss underneath your aligners.

Avoid Sugary Foods and Drinks

Foods that contain sticky sugars, like hard candy or caramel, can pull off the aligners or cover them with film. This makes it more difficult for saliva to break down food particles. Therefore, it is best to avoid sugary foods and drinks when you have Invisalign aligners in.

See Your Dentist for Regular Check-ups and Adjustments

Wearing Invisalign aligners doesn’t exempt you from seeing your dentist for regular visits. In fact, these appointments are even more important. Your dentist will monitor your progress and make sure you’re on the right path toward better oral health. They will also make sure your aligners fit correctly and suggest a new set of aligners.

Important Facts About Flossing from Lifetime Dental

Posted on: March 3rd, 2023 by admin

We all want strong, beautiful and healthy teeth! This doesn't just happen though. Like many things in life, it takes hard work to have beautiful teeth and to maintain a healthy oral hygiene regimen.

Did you know how important flossing is to your teeth? While missing a day of flossing won’t cause your teeth to fall out immediately, over time not flossing your teeth regularly can have very negative oral effects. You should be flossing once daily to remove excess bacteria and plaque from between your teeth, lessening the chances of decay and cavities.

flossing teethHere are a few flossing facts for you to think about.

1. Floss comes in a variety of flavors!
Traditional dental floss is either unflavored or mint, but other varieties include bubblegum and cinnamon. Online novelty shops also sell floss in flavors like bacon or wasabi!

2. Brushing alone only cleans 70% of your teeth.
The remaining 30% is why flossing is so important! Flossing helps reach the tight spots between your teeth that brushing cannot hit. If you think about it, skipping out on flossing would be like only washing six of your fingers after using the bathroom.

3. Braces aren’t an excuse to skip flossing.
There are special devices made to help people with traditional metal braces clean between their teeth, and a special threading maneuver can also help get floss behind brackets and between teeth.

4. Floss can be waxed or unwaxed.
Depending on how tightly your teeth fit together, the type of floss you need will vary. Teeth that are very close together will be more easily flossed with waxed floss, as the wax helps the string slide gently between tight spaces. For more spaced teeth, unwaxed floss will do a great job clearing out debris.

5. Flossing helps fight cavities and bad breath.
Because flossing removes plaque and food debris, it is helping you to both keep your teeth and gums healthy as well as your breath fresh! The acid in plaque bores into teeth, causing them to decay, but flossing helps eradicate this issue. Additionally, food particles that linger in your mouth impact how your breath smells, both from the scent of the food itself and the smell it makes while it breaks down. Flossing helps to clear out these unpleasant odors.

6. When it comes to floss, more is often more.
It’s best to use 18 to 20 inches of string each time you floss! This will give you enough floss the wrap securely around your fingers as well as ample floss to move between your teeth.

It’s never too late to start flossing regularly! If you have questions about how to floss properly or help ensure you make the habit stick, talk to your dentist for more insight and advice.

To schedule your next appointment at Lifetime Dental in Canton, Michigan, South Lyon, Michigan or West Bloomfield, Michigan, just give us a call!

Canton: (734) 844-1300

South Lyon: (248) 437-1010

West Bloomfield: (248) 855-8000

Lifetime Dental Group celebrates the opening of 6,000-square-foot West Bloomfield facility

Posted on: February 1st, 2023 by admin

Lifetime Dental Group celebrates the opening of 6,000-square-foot West Bloomfield facility.

The 6,000-square-foot state-of-the-art dental facility marks the third location for the growing practice, which has two more locations in South Lyon and Canton. The latter is the original practice opened in 1999, which was originally called David N Kam DDS PC.

“We owe it to the community,” the dentist explains. “The community supports us and we should support them.”

Yet his values go beyond simply a love for supporting Metro Detroit and beyond. In fact, Kam says it’s the driving factor behind his business values.

“We lived in a very Conservative household, knowing right from wrong,” he explains. “The values that I learned growing up, I implemented those same values in my business.”

Kam prides his practice on one distinguishing trait: honesty. “I started my business with nothing,” he recalls, “not even one patient. To grow so big, it’s because we treat people how people deserve to be treated. We do good, honest work at a fair price.”

Between its three offices, Lifetime Dental Group sees close to 25,000 patients and has 60 professionals on staff. Oftentimes, the practice will see people in need who can’t afford standard dental fees.

“That’s what we’ve done for the last 25 years or so,” he says.

Honest Business Values

The new West Bloomfield facility is the latest contribution to the Metro Detroit community and beyond, which Kam says makes dental visits easier for patients in the West Bloomfield or Bloomfield Hills area who previously drove to Canton or South Lyon.

Opened in October, Lifetime Dental Group’s West Bloomfield location is the practice’s most advanced office yet. “It’s high-tech and has every state-of-the-art technology in dentistry,” Kam explains.

This includes special X-ray machines that are able to take X-rays outside of patients’ mouths, digital scanners to create impressions and even massage chairs in every room at the West Bloomfield office.

The goal? To help patients feel more comfortable. “We have digital X-rays, which use 90% less radiation than regular X-rays,” Kam says. “We have the latest in sterilization techniques to make sure that everything is 100% sterile and clean.”

Offering trustworthy services, Kam explains, is the key to being successful in dentistry.

“We are honest,” he says of what keeps his patients coming back year after year. “When people come to us for a second opinion after seeing another dentist, we often find they don’t need [expensive services] that other dentists have recommended.”

This saves patients time, energy and above all, hard-earned money. “Dentistry is a very ethical field,” Kam explains, “that people should take an oath for. So, we’re ethical.”

An honest mindset is shared by Kam and everyone who works at the practice, he says. Lifetime Dental Group also offers a Lifetime Dental Discount Plan that serves as an alternative to traditional dental insurance for those who don’t have it, since dental work can be pricey without some type of insurance or discount plan in place.

The discount plan, Kam explains, was a cornerstone of wanting to form his own practice after earning his doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry in 1996.

“I had a philosophy where I knew what I wanted,” he says, “and that was opening an office where if you don’t have dental insurance, we could have a good, in-office discount plan, and an office that takes most insurance networks.”

Now nearly 25 years after launching his dream practice, Kam says he and his team have achieved that goal. “We provide excellent service without cutting any corners.”

Changing One Smile at A Time

Currently, Lifetime Dental Group offers a number of services that include teeth cleanings and fillings, dental X-rays, root canals, dental crowns and bridges, and dental implants. They also treat gum disease, dental emergencies and perform dental extractions.

Kam explains there are orthodontists, endodontists and periodontists available to see in their practices, which isn’t common for general dental offices to have on staff.

Yet amongst many services and specialties, Kam says the most rewarding part of the job is the ability to change or improve a person’s smile.

“We do a lot of smile makeovers where we transform people’s smiles,” he explains. This can include people who have broken teeth, stained teeth and other concerns that might prevent them from wanting to smile. “We give them a beautiful movie-star smile.”

Kam says some patients have even been in tears to see the results. “Whether they’re a grown man or a young woman, they just can’t believe how happy they are,” he describes.

For many, smiles are an extremely personal trait. “It’s changed their lives. They could smile now, and they feel confident. Their teeth look good, and they feel good in return.”

Maintaining A Philosophy

These important and often life-changing relationships that Kam and his staff build is what makes patients stay with Lifetime Dental Group over the decades.

Brian Kaufman of Bloomfield Hills, who has been a patient at Lifetime Dental Group for five years, says the practice’s attention to every detail is what makes them stand out.

“They’re always available and happy to help when needed,” he says. “There are no expenses spared to provide every patient with the most advanced technology.”

It’s a feeling, Kaufman says, that patients can experience from the lobby when they walk in through the front door to each treatment room. “Everything is done with the patients’ comfort in mind,” he adds.

Robyn Presser, 53 of West Bloomfield, agrees. “Lifetime Dental Group has been more than just a dental office to myself, my husband and my two boys,” she says. “It’s a part of our family.” A “lifetime,” she explains, is exactly how long she’d like to be a patient.

“They make you feel comfortable and at home,” she continues. “The decor, machines, technology and staff are all state-of-the-art.”

Kam says that if all goes well with the new West Bloomfield location, he plans to continue expanding Lifetime Dental Group shortly.

“We have the same philosophy,” Kam says of every expansion. “To provide the best service at the best price.”

Options For Replacing a Missing Tooth

Posted on: October 10th, 2022 by admin

At Lifetime Dental we know how serious your perfect smile is for your self-esteem. When a person is concerned or anxious about the way their teeth look, we totally get it. We can help.

A missing tooth can definitely change the appearance of your smile. Whether a missing tooth is the result of gum disease, injury, severe tooth decay, or a genetic condition, a missing tooth can cause several problems. Regardless of the way a tooth is lost, it can negatively impact the alignment of your teeth over time and cause a number of problems down the road if it isn’t replaced. Sometimes the value of your teeth isn’t realized until they are lost, and unfortunately, teeth do not last forever. Even the loss of a single tooth can have a negative impact on your oral health and confidence. A missing tooth or teeth can also affect your speech, and your ability to chew food and it can cause the slow shifting of your teeth into some of the empty spaces.

Before After - Missing Tooth - Cosmetic Dentistry

Fortunately for you, there are a number of excellent options available to replace your missing tooth or teeth to help restore your beautiful smile, including:

Dental implants are one of the most common methods of tooth replacement. Dental implants are a very reliable type of tooth replacement that both looks and feels like a real tooth. Dental implants provide a permanent solution if you need to replace a single tooth, or multiple teeth, in different areas. If taken care of, dental implants can last you a lifetime. The process of placing your dental implant can be somewhat lengthy. It begins with the replacement of your tooth’s root with metal screws, which will be used as an anchor for the false tooth placed on top. Once the screws have been put into place, you will need to allow the implant to heal for a few months, during which time, the implant becomes securely fused to your jawbone. Once the implant has healed completely, a dental crown will be placed on top and secured.

Another option to fix a missing tooth is an implant-supported bridge is an ideal solution for multiple missing teeth in a row. The process of replacing each tooth with a dental implant can be very lengthy and unnecessary. With an implant-supported bridge, only the teeth at the two ends are secured in place with implants. The teeth in the middle of the two ends are held in place without any screwing.

Another option is removable partial dentures are a comparatively simpler option to replace missing teeth, similar to dental implants. Compared to a complete set of dentures for all your teeth, removable partial dentures are suggested for individuals with a few missing teeth. Removable partial dentures are clasped into their correct place, which ensures that the false teeth are held in the appropriate spots.

Finally, an option is what is known as a “flipper.” This is a temporary partial denture that has the ability to flip in and out of its position. A flipper is not dependent on any surrounding teeth and does not have any metal clasps.

Vaping and Your Oral Health

Posted on: July 23rd, 2020 by admin

As you’re no doubt aware, smoking is a dangerous habit that has serious health consequences. Although the dental effects of smoking pale in comparison to the life-threatening general health effects, they are nonetheless impactful and noteworthy. (Check out our slideshow on 7 dental health concerns for smokers.) Smoking stains the teeth and increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer, potentially limits candidacy for certain popular treatments like dental implants, and more.

According to data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services one in five people smoke in the United States. Many of these smokers have transitioned away from traditional combustible cigarettes in recent years to the supposedly “safer” e-cigarette and vaping alternatives.

Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) are relatively new products that convert a liquid concentrate into an aerosol via a heating element. Many of those trying to quit smoking end up using ENDS because there is no tobacco involved. (It is called “vaping” because ENDS vaporizes the nicotine for ingestion, without using any tobacco.) The idea that switching to ENDS is a stepping-stone to quitting entirely. However there are a number of people transitioning to ENDS because of the trend, and there are even new smokers using them as an entry point to starting smoking.

So it begs the question: Is vaping really less harmful to health (specifically oral health) than traditional smoking?

Unfortunately, this is a bit of a loaded question. Vaping is too new for there to be any long-term studies evaluating its health effects as compared with smoking. So it’s rather disingenuous to get into any sort of true comparison at this point. But we can look at the potential oral health effects of vaping as a standalone.

Nicotine and Oral Health

E-cigarettes may not contain tobacco, but they do contain nicotine, the highly addictive chemical additive in traditional cigarettes. A vasoconstrictor, nicotine inhibits blood flow which can have damaging effects throughout the body. The level of reduced blood flow in the mouth is particularly high, compared to other parts of the body, causing the vaporized nicotine to directly enter oral tissues as the vapor is inhaled. This reduced blood flow can lead to tissue death and gum recession. As if this isn’t bad enough (recession can increase your risk of a number of dental problems), the reduced blood flow can hide the symptoms of serious gum disease.

Gum inflammation and bleeding are two tell-tale signs of gum disease. By inhibiting blood flow and creating a reduced level of bleeding and inflammation, nicotine can make it more difficult for a dentist to identify gum disease. Considering that gum disease has been linked with stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer risk, masking of its symptoms is a serious dental and general health concern.

Nicotine can also cause teeth grinding, which seriously damages the surfaces of the teeth and can impact bite alignment, leading to jaw-related problems like TMD.

Nicotine aside, there are other oral health concerns associated with vaping that still need to be studied. For example, the liquids used in vaping contain an array of chemicals (like diethylene glycol) that can potentially be harmful, depending on the concentrations and frequency of use. Many contain a menthol additive that has been shown to break down epithelial cells, potentially harming gum tissue. In addition, many dental patients who vape have reported issues related to dry mouth (xerostomia) which increases the risk of tooth decay.

The bottom line is simple. Although vaping might not share all the negative health effects of smoking combustible cigarettes, it has its own health concerns (specifically oral health concerns) that have not yet been fully studied or evaluated. If you use ENDS, speak with your dentist to learn more about the potential oral health effects.