Electronic cigarettes or vapes are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative for conventional smokers. However, many people are still unaware that this habit can have negative effects on dental and gum health. Various studies have shown that the chemicals in vape liquid can cause oral health problems, including gum inflammation and an increased risk of periodontal disease.
One of the main consequences of electronic smoking is a higher risk of plaque buildup and reduced oral hygiene. A study conducted by Angguningtyas W, a student at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), under the supervision of Dr. Sri Widiati, MPH, and Dr. Bambang Priyono, S.U., found significant differences in dental hygiene and periodontal health status between conventional and electronic cigarette users. This is due to the nicotine and additives in vape liquid that can stimulate bacterial growth in the mouth.
Additionally, electronic smoking may cause irritation of the oral tissues and increase the risk of gum inflammation. According to a narrative review conducted by FKG UGM student Julian Ririhena under the guidance of Dr. Alma Linggar Jonarta, M.Kes., and Prof. Tetiana Haniastuti, M.Kes., Ph.D., electronic cigarettes can affect the oral cavity by increasing the risk of periodontal disease, tooth decay, and fractures or cracks in the teeth. As a result, vape users are more prone to bad breath, bleeding gums, and tooth damage due to reduced natural protection from saliva.
To prevent the negative effects of electronic smoking on dental and gum health, the following steps can be taken:
- Reduce or quit using electronic cigarettes to maintain oral health.
- Maintain oral hygiene by brushing teeth twice daily and using dental floss.
- Regularly visit the dentist for early detection of potential issues.
- Consume foods that help boost saliva production, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, to maintain a balanced oral microbiome.
Electronic smoking is not a completely safe alternative for oral health. Therefore, awareness of its impact and the implementation of good oral hygiene habits are essential to avoid more serious health problems in the future. These efforts also support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
References
Angguningtyas W, Dr. drg. Sri Widiati, MPH., Dr. drg. Bambang Priyono, S.U., Differences in Oral Hygiene and Periodontal Health Status Between Conventional and Electronic Smokers, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/191551
Julian Ririhena, Dr. drg. Alma Linggar Jonarta, M.Kes., Prof. drg. Tetiana Haniastuti, M.Kes., Ph.D., The Impact of Electronic Cigarettes on the Oral Cavity, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/198118
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Editor: Shinta
Photo: Freepik
