A recent study on the effects of e-cigarettes on oral health has more dismal information for men and women who believe vaping is less risky than smoking traditional cigarettes. In a study published in the journal Oncotarget, analysts determined 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
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 unanticipated rise in popularity of e-cigarettes, however, has generated an alarming health risk, especially for the nation’s youth.
“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. Gordon West of Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry. My experienced team treats patients suffering from smoking-related oral health conditions with expertise and compassion. We also attempt to deliver trustworthy information about public health issues. We add our voice to the healthcare professionals who are working to inform the public about the risks of e-cigarettes and clear up the misconception that they are somehow safer than traditional cigarettes.
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, https://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, https://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/smoking-facts/e-cigarettes-and-lung-health.html, accessed April 25, 2017
Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:
303-665-5335
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1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026