Electronic cigarette may increase the risk of tooth decay

Dentist states that oral health requires daily care and the use of electronic cigarettes can harm teeth and develop cavities, as indicated by a study from an American institution.   The pillars for maintaining oral health and fresh breath throughout the day require at least three brushings after main meals, one of which should be more thorough, using dental floss, brushing the tongue, gums, and cheeks, indicates dentist Catarina Riva. However, even following all these recommendations, the use of electronic cigarettes, also known as 'vapes', may increase the risk of tooth decay. This is revealed by a study conducted by the team at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, published in The Journal of the American Dental Association, which investigates a higher likelihood of cavities associated with the use of electronic cigarettes. Researchers from the American institution revealed that the liquids used in electronic cigarettes contain propylene glycol, glycerin, nicotine, and a wide variety of flavors that can coat the teeth with a sugary and sticky film, promoting bacterial growth. It’s like going to bed after sucking on a lollipop, revealed Karina Irusa, author of the study and professor at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Preliminary data from the study suggest a high risk of cavities in about 79% of patients who used electronic cigarettes, compared to 60% in the control group. Dentist Catarina Riva highlights why sugar is so harmful to teeth. “As sugar is embedded in the teeth, the bacteria in the mouth feed on it, and these bacteria quickly produce acids that destroy tooth enamel. In other words, the more sugary substances, the greater the likelihood of cavities,” emphasizes the dentist. In Brazil, there are over 2 million vape users, according to research from the Institute of Research and Consulting Intelligence (Ipec) in 2021. In 2020, there were 948 thousand, an increase of 120%. According to Catarina Riva, the mouth naturally has bacteria, some of which are beneficial and important for maintaining oral health balance. “With excessive use of electronic cigarettes, there may be a buildup of substances on the teeth that can favor harmful bacteria, leading to the appearance of cavities,” explains the dentist.