E-cigarette use, also known as vaping, is becoming more and more popular in Hawaii. In fact, 25.5% of teens in the state already vape, which is twice the national average. While this habit has a variety of negative impacts, including unexpected visits to a pediatric dentist, there are ways to encourage your son or daughter to quit. Here’s what you need to know. 

How Does Vaping Affect Your Child’s Health?

While scientists are still studying the effects of e-cigarettes, there’s already evidence that vaping can damage the lungs. Additionally, defective vaping products can lead to fires and serious injuries. Swallowing or breathing vaping liquid can also damage the body, and it’s considered a poison.

E-cigarettes can also cause a number of oral health issues, including dry mouth, gum disease, irritation, bacteria buildup, bone loss, and DNA damage.  

How Do I Encourage My Teen to Stop Vaping?

Understand that it isn’t easy to quit e-cigarettes. It takes hard work and often more than one try. Each time your teen shows progress, celebrate their accomplishments. Additionally, show your support throughout the process by offering praise and encouragement. Give them extra attention, and don’t judge them for their behaviors. Instead, work to be open and accepting. 

Talk to your child about how you feel about the habit. Without threatening them or giving them ultimatums, explain why you don’t like them vaping. Make it clear that you care about their health and have their best interests in mind. Also, ask them why they vape. Is it to fit in at school or avoid getting bullied? Understanding what’s motivating them will help you come up with a strategy to get them to quit.  

When you need a pediatric dentist for your teen, contact Pedodontic Associates Inc. Serving Oahu and Maui, HI, they will help your son or daughter limit the oral health effects of vaping. In addition to providing regular cleanings, they’ll teach your teen oral care best practices to prevent gum disease and bone loss. Their pediatric dentists are also skilled at working with dental anxiety. Call (808) 735-1733 for the Honolulu location, reach out at (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, and dial (808) 877-0066 for the Kahului office. Visit their website to learn more.