Impact of Electronic Cigarettes on Oral Health

More than 10 million adults use e-cigarettes ("vape “tobacco products). There was a 78% increase in the use of e-cigarettes by high school students from 2020 to 2021. Considered a better alternative to smoking, vaping comes with many health risks and is bad for your teeth. New research shows similar oral cancer-linked impacts on gum cells from e-cigarette vapor and cigarette smoke. E-cigarette use is linked to increased rates of tooth decay and gum disease. Prolonged vaping can lead to negative oral health outcomes.

Good oral health is vital for physical and mental well-being. Emerging research shows that in your mouth, the e-cigarette can cause negative health effects very similar to those caused by traditional cigarette smoke. E-liquids contain nicotine and other chemicals and harmful substances that affect the mouth and body. Increased exposure to nicotine increases your risk of periodontal disease. Dry mouth is another concern, and the link between dry mouth and tooth decay is well established. Research has found that e-cigarettes use can cause tissue inflammation and damages comparable to regular cigarettes. Tooth decay is a common problem in vape users.

Do you know how vaping affects your teeth and gums?

Although research is outgoing, we know that vaping may increase your risk of:

• Dry mouth and bad breath (halitosis)

• Saliva thickening

• Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis)

• Increased risk of tooth loss (periodontitis)

• Cavities

• Increased risk of oral cancer

• Vaping can exacerbate teeth grinding

Other dangers:

• Nicotine addiction from exposure to high concentrations of chemicals, particularly in extra-strength cartridges.

• Burn injuries from exploding battery-powered vaping devices.

• Lung and heart diseases caused by inhaling toxic chemicals in vaping liquid

Do you smoke or vape?

Smoking and vaping make it harder for your body to fight disease because it damages your lungs and harms your immune system. The possible health risks concerning e-cigarettes use involve cancers, other diseases, and injuries due to explosions. Current research has shown that mouth and throat irritation and poor oral health conditions are the most common adverse effect of e-cigarettes. Vaping can increase the number of bacteria in the mouth that cause gum disease. In severe cases, this can cause the teeth to fall out. Two-thirds of mouth cancer cases are linked to smoking. People who smoke are 3 times more likely to lose all their teeth.

For more information about dental health, please call one of our offices in Cambridge and Somerville or contact us online.