A recent study on the influences of e-cigarettes on oral health has more dismal news for people who believe vaping is less dangerous than smoking traditional cigarettes. In a study published in the journal Oncotarget, analysts concluded that e-cigarettes may cause chronic inflammation and permanent cellular deterioration. These conditions, in turn, can result in gum disease, oral cancer, and tooth loss.1
Why is this article appearing on a pediatric dental blog? Unfortunately, many adolescents in the Horseshoe Bay area have taken up vaping. It has become an issue for dentists who provide care for adolescents.
As defined by the FDA, “E-cigarettes are devices that allow users to inhale an aerosol containing nicotine or other substances.”2
Before e-cigarettes came out on the scene in 2005, the number of people who smoked traditional cigarettes had remained fairly steady. The unforeseen rise in popularity of e-cigarettes, however, has resulted in a widespread health risk, especially for the nation’s teenagers.
“Between 2011 and 2015, the U.S. Surgeon General found e-cigarette use among high school students increased by 900 percent, with more teens now using e-cigarettes than cigarettes.”2
Hi, I’m Dr. Greg Ritchie of Ritchie Dental Group. My experienced team treats patients suffering from smoking-related oral health conditions with expertise and compassion. We also strive to provide reliable information about public health issues. We add our voice to the healthcare professionals who are working to inform the public about the perils of e-cigarettes and clear up the misconception that they are somehow less risky than traditional cigarettes.
