Vaping Increases Risk of Cavities and Gum Disease

The use of electronic cigarettes (vaping) has a comprehensive negative impact on oral tissues, significantly increasing the risk of developing cavities and gum disease, according to Dr. Denis Moiseev, a dental surgeon and periodontist. In an interview with Gazeta.Ru, he explained how vape aerosol components harm oral health.

Dr. Moiseev stated that propylene glycol and glycerin, the base ingredients in e-liquids, create a film on teeth and mucous membranes that serves as a breeding ground for pathogenic bacteria. This leads to a sharp increase in bacteria that cause cavities and periodontitis. Furthermore, nicotine (even in low concentrations) and the aerosol itself suppress salivary gland function. “Saliva is a key protective factor… its deficiency is a direct path to cavities, gum inflammation, and mucosal pathology,” he noted.

Chemical components in the aerosol, including flavorings and fine particles, cause chronic irritation, leading to redness and swelling. This chronic inflammation, combined with a suppressed immune response from nicotine, can lead to bleeding gums and the eventual destruction of tooth-supporting tissues. Dr. Moiseev warned that nicotine’s ability to constrict blood vessels can temporarily reduce gum bleeding, creating a false impression of health and delaying dental visits until the disease becomes severe. He emphasized that quitting vaping early is crucial to minimizing irreversible damage.