Research conducted by faculty members at Tufts University’s School of Dentistry revealed that tooth decay accelerated in patients who said they used electronic cigarettes.
As the use of electronic cigarettes continues to become more common, researchers reveal a new harmful effect of it. Karina Irusa, lead author of the study conducted by the Tufts University School of Dentistry, states that e-cigarette use increases the risk of dental caries.
Research published in The Journal of the American Dental Association reveals that this once harmless habit can be very harmful. Although the scientific establishment of the relationship between electronic cigarette use and lung cancer raises public awareness, it is reported that there are more than 10 million people using electronic cigarette devices in the United States alone. New research shows that these devices play a role in decay related to gum disease and tooth enamel damage.
Electronic Cigarettes Increase Tooth Decay By Nearly 20 Percent
According to Irusa, this is the first known study to investigate the relationship between electronic cigarettes and e-cigarettes and an increased risk of caries. It is also stated that the data of more than 13,000 patients over the age of 16 who were treated at Tufts dental clinics between 2019-2022 were analyzed within the scope of the study. There is a 20 percent higher risk of caries between electronic cigarette users and non-users.
One reason why e-cigarette use contributes to a higher risk of dental caries is the sugary content of the liquid that sticks to the teeth when aerosolized and then inhaled through the mouth. While it is stated that this situation accelerates the decay, Irusa said, “Once you start the habit, even if you have a filling, the risk of secondary caries continues as long as you continue. It’s a vicious circle that won’t stop.” used the phrases.
