Quit Vaping to Protect Your Dental & Overall Health

While often marketed as a less harmful alternative to traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes (vapes) are not a safe product and pose significant threats to both dental and overall health. Tobacco use in any form remains the leading cause of preventable illness and death in the United States, and vaping is no exception. With around 8% of the U.S. population using e-cigarettes, and their status as the most commonly used tobacco product among American youth for the last decade, understanding the risks is more crucial than ever.

The 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey highlights the scale of the issue, showing that almost 6% of middle and high school students currently use e-cigarettes, with over a quarter of these young users vaping daily. “There’s no ‘better for you’ cigarette out there in the marketplace. Whether you choose to vape or smoke, you still risk becoming addicted to nicotine, which can negatively impact your oral and overall health greatly over time,” warns American Dental Association (ADA) dentist, Dr. Mirissa Price.

Vaping involves inhaling an aerosol created by heating an “e-juice,” which often contains high concentrations of nicotine, flavorings, and other harmful chemicals. Nicotine is highly addictive and is known to harm adolescent brain development related to memory, attention, and emotional regulation. Research shows that the average nicotine strength in e-cigarettes has increased dramatically, with some products now delivering double the amount of nicotine inhaled from a pack of cigarettes. Even cartridges labeled “nicotine-free” have been found to contain nicotine.

Beyond nicotine, vape aerosol can contain cancer-causing chemicals, heavy metals like nickel, tin, and lead, and ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs. Dr. Price also points out that “the flavorings in e-juice are designed to attract youth and young adults, and they may also contain sugar, which contributes to tooth decay.” A study in The Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) found a correlation between vaping and a higher risk of untreated cavities, though more research is needed to confirm causation.

Additionally, the high heat from vape pen batteries (up to 400°F) can alter the aerosol, potentially causing tooth discoloration and making it stickier, prolonging contact with teeth. There have also been news reports of e-cigarettes exploding and causing severe injuries.

If you vape, quitting is a significant step towards improving your health. Resources are available at MouthHealthy.org/vaping, and Dr. Price encourages users to seek support. “Ask your dentist for suggestions and support too. Your dentist, who cares about your health, is there to offer guidance and motivation to help you stop using e-cigarettes.”