A recent study on the influences of e-cigarettes on oral health has more troubling information for men and women who believe vaping is less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes. In a study published in the journal Oncotarget, scientists concluded that e-cigarettes may cause chronic inflammation and permanent cellular weakening. These conditions, in turn, can bring about periodontal 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 came out on the scene in 2005, the number of individuals who smoked traditional cigarettes had remained fairly steady. The unexpected 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. Steve Haywood of Dr. Steven W. Haywood. My experienced team treats patients suffering from smoking-related dental health ailments with expertise and compassion. We also endeavor to provide trustworthy 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 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, 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 Dr. Steven W. Haywood:
410-453-9399
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
108 W Timonium Rd Ste 200
Timonium, Maryland
21093
