The Oral Health Risks of Vaping in College

Vaping has gained popularity among college students, often seen as a method to manage stress and anxiety. However, this habit poses significant oral health risks that are frequently overlooked due to the misconception that e-cigarettes are a safer alternative to traditional smoking. This article delves into why college students turn to vaping, the risks associated with e-cigarette use, and the findings of recent studies on its impact on oral health.

Vaping as a Stress Management Tool

The college environment is notoriously stressful, with students juggling exams, internships, and future career planning. A 2021 survey revealed that four out of five college students use e-cigarettes as a means to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression. Despite providing temporary relief, vaping introduces harmful substances into the body, affecting both mental and physical health.

Oral Health Risks of E-Cigarettes

E-cigarettes contain alternative tobacco products that can have severe repercussions on oral health. Regular use can lead to:

Xerostomia (dry mouth)
Smoker’s melanosis
Nicotine stomatitis
Hairy tongue
Oral candidiasis
Peri-implant inflammation
Oral cavity cancer and other potentially malignant disorders like leukoplakia and erythroplakia

Additionally, common side effects include dental caries, toothaches, abscesses, tooth sensitivity, cracked or broken teeth, and tooth loss. The habit of vaping not only opens the door to these risks but can also result in permanent oral health damage.

Misconceptions About Vaping

Many perceive e-cigarettes as a safer alternative to traditional smoking, a view that contributes to their widespread use. However, this misconception can lead nonsmokers to develop nicotine dependence. A study found that 33.6% of e-cigarette users also smoked traditional tobacco cigarettes, suggesting that vaping may serve as a gateway to conventional smoking.

Comparing Oral Health: Vapers vs. Non-Vapers

Research conducted in August 2024 compared the oral health of nonsmokers and regular vape users. The study found that e-cigarette users are more likely to develop gingival disease and dental caries, worsening over six months. The chemical properties of e-liquids promote enamel demineralisation and bacterial adherence, exacerbating oral health issues.

Encouraging Healthy Habits

Given the dangerous effects of e-cigarette use, it is crucial to instil healthy habits in young vapers. Data from a 2021 Truth Initiative survey showed that roughly half of frequent vapers aged 15–25 believe they need to vape to manage stress. However, quitting vaping can improve stress and mental health, with 47% of those who quit reporting a better sense of control over their lives.

Conclusion

Understanding the severe impact of vaping on oral health is vital for college students who use e-cigarettes as a stress management tool. By educating patients about the associated risks, dental professionals can play a pivotal role in guiding young individuals towards healthier lifestyle choices.