Vaping Habit Results in Severe Dental Damage and Financial Strain
A woman from Swansea has revealed how a nine-year vaping habit left her with two severely discoloured front teeth and a staggering financial outlay exceeding £17,000. Stacey Gardiner, aged 41, began vaping in December 2017, initially using rechargeable devices before transitioning to disposable vapes as local vape shops proliferated.
Rapid Consumption and Unnoticed Damage
Gardiner's consumption escalated quickly, with her using up to five vapes per week. On some days, she would finish a standard 600-puff device entirely, leading to monthly expenditures of approximately £120. The first signs of trouble emerged in August 2021, when she noticed a dark mark at the top of her right front tooth.
"It didn't occur to me what might be causing it," she admitted. Over time, the discolouration spread to both front teeth, turning them black. Despite maintaining good oral hygiene—brushing twice daily and avoiding sweets—the damage progressed unchecked.
Dental Crisis and NHS Access Issues
Following an emergency dental visit last year to extract two molars, Gardiner raised concerns about her front teeth with her dentist. The professional suggested the deterioration was likely "down to vaping." Compounding her problems, Gardiner has been on the waiting list for an NHS dentist for over five years, with her last check-up occurring a decade ago.
"I'm on a waiting list here in Wales, but the chances of getting an NHS dentist are slim," she explained. The visible damage led to awkward social interactions, with people questioning whether her teeth were crowns.
Quitting the Habit and Seeking Solutions
Six months ago, Gardiner decided to quit vaping "cold turkey" after realising it was merely a habit rather than an enjoyable activity. "I didn't actually enjoy it," she stated. Her GP prescribed Nicorette patches to manage cravings, but these proved ineffective.
To address her dental appearance, Gardiner invested £200 in clip-in veneers from Instasmile in January 2026. She submitted twelve separate impressions to ensure a perfect fit. "I don't wear them at home, but if I'm going out I'll pop them in," she said. The veneers have restored her confidence, allowing her to smile freely again.
Warning About Insufficient Awareness
Gardiner believes there is inadequate public awareness regarding vaping's dental risks compared to its pulmonary effects. "I don't think there is enough awareness about vapes causing damage to teeth," she emphasised. She expressed particular concern for younger users, noting that teenagers who start vaping could face similar issues by their early twenties.
"The vapes leave residue around the top of your teeth and gumline. That's what causes the damage," she explained, attributing the problem to sweet flavours and chemical residues.
Ongoing Dental Challenges and Health Guidance
Gardiner is now considering a bottom set of veneers to match her top set, though she worries about the costs of private dental treatment. NHS Better Health acknowledges that vaping carries "a small fraction of the risks of smoking" but cautions that vapes are largely unregulated, with unknown precise contents.
The health body advises purchasing vaping products only from reputable UK suppliers—such as specialist vape shops, pharmacies, supermarkets, or regulated online retailers—to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
