A new study by researchers at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine has found that vaping is associated with a higher risk of developing cavities.
The study, published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, analyzed data from more than 13,000 patients older than 16. The researchers found that 79% of the vaping patients were categorized as having high-caries risk, compared to just about 60% of the control group.
The researchers believe that vaping contributes to a high risk of cavities because of the sugary content and viscosity of the vaping liquid, which sticks to the teeth when inhaled. Vaping aerosols have also been shown to change the oral microbiome, making it more hospitable to decay-causing bacteria.
“It’s important to understand this is preliminary data,” says lead author Karina Irusa, assistant professor of comprehensive care. “This is not 100% conclusive, but people need to be aware of what we’re seeing.”
Irusa says that further studies need to be done to explore the full extent of the effects of vaping on dental health. However, she encourages people to be aware of the potential risks and to talk to their dentist about any concerns they have.
