Vaping, or the use of e-cigarettes, is frequently promoted as a safer alternative to smoking tobacco, which may explain vaping’s significantly increased popularity in the past couple of years. However, this is a cause of some real concern. There are so many vaping products and ingredients on the market today, that medical professionals are struggling to understand or predict what the long-term effects might be.
Indeed, government statistics suggest that the number of people vaping more than doubled from 4% to 8.6% between 2021 and 2022,1 despite developing claims within the medical community regarding its impact on oral and overall health. Worryingly, children are quickly picking up the habit, too. A 2023 survey by YouGov found that 7.6% of 11 - 17 year olds in the UK regularly use e-cigarettes, up from 6.9% in 2022.2
Vaping is the inhalation of nicotine via flavoured water vapour. Vape liquids vary in nicotine strength, and some contain no nicotine at all. However, those who vape for either recreational purposes or as a method by which to reduce or quit smoking altogether are frequently asking: is vaping bad for your oral health?
With no shortage of conflicting information out there surrounding the potential negative impact of vaping, it’s time to cut through the noise, consider the latest research, and take a closer look at how e-cigarette use may be harming your dental health.
