CarolinasDentist Blog

How Bad are Smoking and Vaping for Your Smile?

Graphic illustration of a woman smoking with another woman reacting.

We all know that smoking has detrimental effects on our overall health, but have you considered the toll that it can take on your smile? Vaping, though often advertised as a healthier alternative to cigarettes, also comes with consequences for your oral health. Here are a few ways that both of these bad habits can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums.

    Stained Teeth

    A stained, yellow smile is one of the telltale signs that someone is a smoker. The chemicals found in both cigarettes and vapes build up on your teeth over time, turning your pearly whites dull and dingy. Professional whitening treatments can help, but the best way to restore your bright white smile is to quit smoking or vaping.

    Tooth Decay

    Another side effect of the chemical buildup caused by smoking and vaping is tooth decay. The ingredients in cigarettes and vaping liquid are very sticky and adhere to your teeth easily. Cavity-causing bacteria love to feast on plaque buildup in your mouth, so smoking and vaping leave you more vulnerable to tooth decay and weakened tooth enamel.

    Gum Disease

    Nicotine found in cigarettes and vapes causes your blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to the mouth. Proper blood flow is necessary to maintain healthy gums, so nicotine intake leaves your gums more susceptible to disease. Smoking and vaping also lead to dry mouth, which exacerbates gum-related problems.

    Oral Cancer

    Oral cancer, which affects the soft tissues of your lips, tongue, cheeks, and/or throat, is one of the most serious conditions linked to smoking and vaping. If you notice white or red patches in your mouth, persistent sores, unexplained bleeding, or any other symptoms of oral cancer, see your dentist immediately. Early detection is crucial when it comes to oral cancer.

Comprehensive Dentistry at CarolinasDentist

The best way to protect your smile against the effects of cigarettes and vaping is to quit. While you work toward kicking these habits, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is of the utmost importance. Schedule your next checkup and cleaning at CarolinasDentist today! With offices across North Carolina, you’re sure to find a CarolinasDentist near you.

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Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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