Dott. Danilo Trapani
Increasingly widespread among young people and adults, the electronic cigarette is often considered a “less harmful” alternative to traditional smoking. But is this really the case for oral health?
Several scientific studies demonstrate that “vaping” can also cause significant damage to the oral cavity, teeth and gums, altering the microbiota, promoting infections and aggravating gum diseases such as periodontitis.
In this article we analyze the risks of e-cigarettes for oral health and what the most recent medical research thinks about them.
How does an electronic cigarette work?
The e-cig is a device that heats a liquid composed of nicotine, flavors and diluents (propylene glycol and glycerin), transforming it into an aerosol. This vapor is inhaled directly into the mouth, at temperatures that can exceed 200°C, immediately affecting the mucous membranes and oral tissues.
The fact that there is no combustion (as happens in traditional cigarettes) reduces some lung risks, but does not protect the mouth from irritation, dryness and inflammation.
Mouth damage caused by electronic cigarette
The habitual use of the electronic cigarette can generate local damage at various levels of the oral cavity:
Alteration of the oral microbiota
The mouth contains a delicate balance of microorganisms called microbiota, essential to defend the body from infections. The use of e-cigs alters this balance, favoring the growth of pathogenic bacteria.
Gum inflammation
Nicotine and the heat from the vapor can cause chronic irritation, periodontitis, gingivitis and gum recession. Bad breath is often one of the first signs.
Increased risk of infections
With an altered microbiota, the mouth’s immune defenses are reduced. This puts you at a greater risk of tooth decay, bacterial infections, canker sores and even oral thrush.
Carrier of viruses and bacteria
In many cases, the e-cig is exchanged between multiple people, making it possible to transmit infections through saliva, including the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) virus. Some studies indicate an increased risk of contagion of up to 40% among vapers
What science says: the New York University study
An important study published in the journal iScience involved 119 subjects (smokers, vapers and non-smokers), analyzing their oral microbiota and gingival conditions.
The results:
- 72.5% of traditional smokers showed signs of periodontitis or oral infections
- 42.5% of vapers showed the same disorders
- Only 28.2% of non-smokers were affected by similar problems
A high presence of Porphyromonas and Veillonella, bacteria highly correlated with periodontal diseases, was detected in the oral cavity of vapers.
Furthermore, it has been observed that the electronic cigarette:
- It decreases gingival vascularization
- Reduces the immune capacity of the mouth
- It hinders healing from infections and injuries.
Conclusions and advice from the dentist
Although e-cigarettes are often promoted as “less harmful”, oral health can be significantly compromised.
What does the dentist recommend?
- Avoid sharing the device with other people
- Pay attention to the first symptoms: swollen gums, bleeding, bad breath, dryness
- Have regular check-ups at the dentist to monitor the condition of your teeth and gums
- Progressively reduce the use of e-cigs, until considering an assisted cessation process
Prevention also involves correct information and raising awareness among young people about the real dangers of “vaping”.
FAQ
Is e-cigarette bad for your mouth?
Yes. It can cause alterations to the microbiota, periodontitis, tooth decay, bad breath and increase the risk of infections.
Is vaping less dangerous for teeth and gums than smoking?
It is differently dangerous: less harmful to the lungs, but still harmful to oral health.
Do e-cigarettes cause oral infections?
Yes, especially if exchanged between multiple people. They also encourage the growth of dangerous bacteria.