As part of our oral cancer exam, we not only ask if you smoke, but also if you use E-Cigs or vaporizers. Why is that?
Over recent years, E-cigs and vaporizers have gained popularity as a “safer” alternative to smoking tobacco. The question we are often asked is...are E-Cigs and vaporizers a better option for your mouth?
The answer is unclear because up until now, the effects of using a vaporizer and E-cigs have not been fully studied. Now, clinical studies are being done to fully understand these devices and their impact on oral and general health, as well as any potential problems tied to these devices that may not have yet been discovered.
The main ingredients in these electronic units are glycerin, propylene glycol, a food-grade flavoring that gives the "juice" (or vaping liquid) a distinct taste, and (if applicable) nicotine. Users are often misled into thinking that if they use the unit without nicotine that it is harmless; however, contrary to what marketing materials may say, E-Cigs/vaporizers produce a lot more than just “harmless” water vapor when its ingredients are heated and inhaled.
From a dental standpoint, propylene glycol can cause dehydration when you are "vaping." This occurs because the propylene glycol in the vaping liquid will extract water out of your saliva and the surrounding tissues in your throat, nose, and mouth. Healthy salivary flow helps neutralize acids, keeps bacteria-causing decay in check, and overall maintains a healthy balance in your mouth. Without this balance, the risk of developing decay and periodontal issues becomes significantly higher.
With so much still unknown, it is evident that so much more research needs to be done to evaluate the effects E-Cigs and vaporizers have on your oral and general health. Read the latest publication written by the Massachusetts Dental Society on the Youth Vaping Epidemic by clicking on the following link ---> WOM Winter Spring 2019_Youth Vaping.pdf