It’s widely known that maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for preventing diseases that damage teeth and gums. Traditional cigarette smoking, with its harmful compounds, often leads to dental plaque accumulation, gingivitis, and periodontitis. But what about the effects of vaping and heated tobacco products (HTPs) on oral health?
The SMILE Study: A Pioneering Effort
The SMILE Study, led by CoEHAR (The Center of Excellence for the Acceleration of Harm Reduction), set out to examine the oral health impacts of combustion-free nicotine delivery products. This study focused on vapes and HTPs compared to traditional smoking.
The Truth About Vaping and Oral Health
Dr. Professor Riccardo Polosa, co-author of the study, highlighted support from major health organizations in the UK for ENDS (Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems). The SMILE Study aimed to clarify the relationship between vaping and oral health, contributing significantly to global smoking cessation efforts. The study concluded that e-cigarettes and HTPs might offer a less harmful alternative for oral health maintenance compared to conventional cigarettes.
Launched on February 26, 2024, the study explored whether switching from smoking to safer nicotine alternatives could improve gingival health, reduce dental plaque, and minimize enamel discoloration and tooth staining. Researchers from Germany, the UK, Italy, Poland, Moldova, and Indonesia contributed to the study, with dental clinics in these countries conducting the research.
Key Findings of the Study
Volunteer enrollment for the study was completed in August 2023. The research included current smokers, individuals switching to combustion-free products, and non-smokers, allowing comprehensive comparisons. A total of 136 participants were divided into four groups: 30 current smokers (≥10 cigarettes/day), 24 former smokers (quit ≥6 months), 29 never-smokers, and 53 exclusive ENDS users (e-cigarettes and HTPs combined, quit ≥6 months).
Participants maintained their usual oral hygiene habits and abstained from smoking or using other products two hours before the study. Smoking status was verified using carbon monoxide level tests. High-definition camera images using light-induced fluorescence measured plaque accumulation, processed at the pixel level to detect plaque on front teeth. The researchers also assessed tooth staining, dental discoloration, and quality of life related to oral health.
Vaping and Oral Health: Similar to Never Smokers
The study found that exclusive use of vapes and HTPs led to significantly lower dental plaque accumulation compared to current smokers. Plaque levels in ENDS users were similar to those in never and former smokers and significantly lower than those of current smokers.
These findings suggest that e-cigarettes and HTPs may offer a less harmful alternative for maintaining oral health compared to conventional cigarettes. However, the research team emphasized that daily tooth brushing and mouthwash use were significant factors affecting plaque levels.
Final Thoughts
So, while your dentist might not prescribe a vape, it’s good to know that switching from cigarettes to vapes could be a step towards better oral health. Remember to keep up with your brushing and mouthwash routine! What are your thoughts on vaping and oral health? Drop a comment below and don’t forget to follow us at vapeast.com for more updates and insights!
