Tobacco, alcohol, and drug use PCRH Vaping and Gum Health: What You Need to Know Lung damage. Breathlessness. Burns. Gum disease. Vapes are proven to cause real harm to your health. Quitting is hard but the benefits are worth it. Support is available to help you take Smoking doesn't just damage your lungs your teeth and gums suffer too. The first warning signs often appear inside your mouth, and ignoring them can lead to serious dental problems.