Vaping may cause discolored teeth and increased frequency of dentist visits, according to new research from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine.
The researchers found that vaping affects dental health and increases the risk of cavities. And with reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicating that 9.1 million adults and 2 million teens are tobacco-based vape users, that means a whole lot of potential tooth damage.
Karina Irusa, an assistant professor at Tufts, was the lead author of a paper published in the Journal of the American Dental Association linking vaping and dental cavities.
In recent years, people have become increasingly aware of the health risks associated with vaping, especially following reports that linked certain devices to lung illnesses. But when it comes to the effect of vaping on oral health, Irusa warns that the new Tufts study may show just a small part of the harmful possibilities.
Irusa states this is the first study to investigate the association between vaping and an increased risk of developing cavities. The research team examined data from more than 13,000 patients aged 16 and older who visited Tufts dental clinics between 2019 and 2021.
Even though the large majority of patients said they didn’t use vapes, Irusa’s study found that there were different degrees of risk for dental caries between those who did and the group who didn’t.
Nearly 80 percent of vaping patients were identified to have a high risk for tooth decay, which was significantly higher than the 60 percent in the control group.
Irusa warned that the data was only preliminary and more research was needed to make final determinations. She also expressed her wish to gain more insight into how vaping affects the saliva microbiome.
A 2018 study published in PLOS One found that vaping liquids have the same sugary content and viscosity as gummy candy and acidic drinks; when aerosolized, they can stick to teeth.
The Tufts researchers suggest that dentists question their patients, including adolescents, on e-cigarette use during their medical history. This information could be especially relevant since 7.6 percent of middle and high school students reported using them in 2021, according to FDA/CDC findings.
What’s more, the researchers have recommended that e-cigarette users receive a more thorough and effective treatment solution for tooth decay. This could include using high-dose fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash, having in-office fluoride treatments, and going to the dentist more than twice a year.
The Impact of Vaping on Health
Not only does the Tufts study reveal a link between vaping and an increased rate of dental caries, but other studies have also found that it poses an increased risk to one’s overall health, including a higher chance for stroke, heart attacks, bronchitis, and asthma.
According to the CDC, all people should avoid using e-cigarettes, especially pregnant women and minors.
The Impact of Tobacco on Oral Health
The Tufts study also points out the need to reduce the use of tobacco, which is known for its many threats to oral health. The CDC reports that smoking and chewing tobacco may result in gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer.
The ADA urges people to give up all forms of tobacco as quickly as they can to lessen their chances of getting dental decay and other oral health issues.
Generally speaking, the Tufts research reveals the possible perils of vaping for cavities and other oral health concerns. It is important for individuals to acknowledge the risks related to vaping and smoking in order to guard their oral hygiene.
Reach out to us today to learn more about guarding your oral health.