A recent study on the effects of e-cigarettes on oral health has more dismal information for men and women who believe vaping is safer than smoking traditional cigarettes. In a study published in the journal Oncotarget, scientists determined that e-cigarettes may cause chronic inflammation and permanent cellular deterioration. These conditions, in turn, can bring about periodontitis, oral cancer, and tooth loss.1
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 appeared on the scene in 2005, the number of individuals who smoked traditional cigarettes had remained fairly steady. The unforeseen rise in popularity of e-cigarettes, however, has triggered a substantial 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. Chris Hammond of Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. My experienced team treats general dentistry patients suffering from smoking-related oral health conditions with expertise and compassion. We also strive to provide accurate information about public health issues. We add our voice to the healthcare professionals who are working to inform the public about the dangers of e-cigarettes and clear up the misconception that they are somehow less dangerous than traditional cigarettes. If you have smoked in the past and are dealing with gum issues or yellow teeth as a result, call us today to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation. We offer a number of options to get you back to a healthy, beautiful smile.
Sources:
1Isaac K. Sundar, Fawad Javed, Georgios E. Romanos, Irfan Rahman, “E-cigarettes and flavorings induce inflammatory and pro-senescence responses in oral epithelial cells and periodontal fibroblasts,” Oncotarget, 2016, http://www.impactjournals.com/oncotarget/index.php?journal=oncotarget&page=article&op=view&path%5B%5D=12857, accessed April 24, 2017
2 “E-cigarettes and Lung Health” The American Lung Association, http://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/smoking-facts/e-cigarettes-and-lung-health.html, accessed April 25, 2017
Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:
801-374-0070
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604
