Vaping is wrecking oral health: Experts reveal the alarming consequences

India has enacted extensive e-cigarette prohibitions to shield young people from the risks associated with vaping. Though little is known about their usage habits, educated youth, especially Gen Z groups seem to be a rather high user group despite these bans.

As vaping and e-cigarettes continue to dominate the habits of some Gen Z groups in India, new concerns are emerging about its impact on health including the oral health of the young.

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While the dangers of vaping to lung health have been widely discussed, experts are now spotlighting an equally pressing issue including one's oral health.

Inhaling vaporised liquid from electronic cigarettes is known as vaping, and it's frequently thought of as a safer alternative to smoking. Known by several names as vape juice or e-liquid, this liquid has flavorings, chemicals, and nicotine. Although nicotine is well-known for being addictive, current studies have focused on the effects of other ingredients on oral health.

The vapor produced by e-cigarettes contains chemicals that can irritate the gums, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding. Over time, this inflammation can progress to more severe periodontal disease, which may result in tooth loss if left untreated.

Experts explain that Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is one of the main issues with vaping. One popular element in e-liquids is propylene glycol, which has a reputation for lowering saliva production. Because saliva removes food particles from teeth, neutralises acids, and gives teeth vital nutrients, it is critical for maintaining oral health. Reduced salivary flow has been linked to an increased risk of gum disease, dental decay, and foul breath.

Dr. Dhananjay Hemmady from Aakaar Dentistry told mid-day, "Vaping can be highly addictive, mainly due to the nicotine in e-liquids, which leads to physical dependence. It reinforces oral fixation, making the habit hard to break as users become attached to the physical act of vaping. This routine can develop into a behavioral addiction, where the act of holding and inhaling the device becomes ingrained. Additionally, vaping is often linked to social and psychological triggers, making it harder to quit. While seen as a safer alternative to smoking, vaping poses significant risks for oral addiction due to its addictive nature and habitual aspects.

Vaping devices have the potential to produce chemical burns or oral sores because of their high temperatures. After using e-cigarettes, some users have complained of developing sore patches, ulcers, or other types of mouth irritation. If these lesions are not adequately handled, they may get infected and cause pain.

"Vaping negatively impacts oral hygiene by causing dry mouth, which reduces saliva production, essential for cleaning the mouth and preventing cavities. The chemicals in e-liquids can irritate gum tissue, leading to inflammation and an increased risk of gum disease. Vaping also alters the oral microbiome, potentially leading to more harmful bacteria growth, which can increase the chances of developing oral infections. Additionally, nicotine restricts blood flow to the gums, impairing their ability to heal and fight off infections, further heightening the risk of oral diseases such as periodontitis," Dr. Ankita Gehi from Aakaar Dentistry told mid-day.

A 2024 study published in a dentistry journal found that people who vape regularly are 30% more likely to experience gum disease compared to non-vapers. Another study states that vape users have a higher prevalence of dry mouth and related oral health issues compared to traditional smokers and non-smokers.

Dr. Dhananjay said, "To quit vaping, one can gradually reduce nicotine intake, seek support from friends or counseling, and use nicotine replacement therapies like patches or gum. Developing healthy habits, staying active, and avoiding triggers that prompt vaping can also help in managing cravings and successfully breaking the addiction."

Dental experts advise consumers to take the following precautions against the possible hazards of vaping:

Frequent dental check-ups: Seeing the dentist regularly can help identify and treat oral health problems early on. Dentists can offer guidance on how to prevent gum disease and manage dry mouth.

Hydration: Maintaining adequate hydration can lessen some of the symptoms of decreased salivary flow. Frequently consuming water can aid in preserving oral moisture.

Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene: Using an antibacterial mouthwash and brushing and flossing twice a day will help lower the risk of gum disease and cavities.

Limit Vaping: Some of the detrimental impacts on oral health can be mitigated by cutting back on vaping frequency or thinking about options for quitting.

The ban

The Indian government enacted the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes (Production, Manufacture, Import, Export, Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage, and Advertisement) Act (PECA) on December 5, 2019, to ban e-cigarettes and similar devices. The law was enacted to protect public health and prevent harm. The PECA Act prohibits the manufacturing, importing, exporting, transporting, selling, distributing, advertising and possession of e-cigarettes.

Crackdown in Mumbai

Following the ban by the Government of India, Mumbai Police had last year launched a massive crackdown on the sale of e-cigarettes and vapes in the city, and multiple raids were conducted across the city.

An official said, "There were strict orders on the crackdown on vapes and e-cigarettes, raids were conducted on several shops in south Mumbai and shops in posh areas of western suburbs including Bandra and Juhu. During these raids, thousands of e-cigarettes and vapes were seized valuing lakhs of rupees."

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional medical advice.