In recent years, vaping has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional smoking—especially among teens and young adults. In the UAE, student vaping has become a serious public health concern. Recent reports reveal that several schools are taking proactive steps to curb this trend, including the installation of vape-detection sensors in restrooms, random bag checks, and increased parent involvement.
No tobacco products, including vapes are safe (CDC).
Marketed as a “safer” option, many assume it carries fewer health risks. But what about your mouth? Can vaping damage your teeth and gums? According to recent peer-reviewed research, the answer is yes.
How Does Vaping Work?
Vaping devices, also known as e-cigarettes or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), are battery-powered tools that turn a liquid—commonly referred to as e-liquid or vape juice—into an aerosol that is inhaled into the lungs. When a person inhales through the mouthpiece, the device activates a battery-powered heating element that quickly heats the e-liquid. This liquid typically contains nicotine, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and various flavoring agents. As the liquid heats up, it turns into a fine mist or aerosol, which the user inhales into their lungs.
Unlike traditional cigarettes, vaping does not produce smoke. However, the aerosol still contains potentially harmful substances, including nicotine, ultrafine particles, heavy metals, and other toxic compounds. While it may appear cleaner than cigarette smoke, this vapor can still have serious health consequences—especially for the delicate tissues of the mouth and lungs.
Signs That Your Child is Vaping
It's important to openly discuss the health risks of vaping with your children. Alongside the conversation, stay alert for potential warning signs, such as:
Being informed and observant can help you take action early.
How Vaping Harms Our Oral Health
Vaping Disrupts the Oral Microbiome
The balance of healthy bacteria in your mouth plays a key role in protecting against decay and gum disease. But studies show that e-cigarette use alters this delicate balance. Vapers have higher levels of harmful bacteria in their mouths—similar to those found in smokers—which can make them more susceptible to oral infections and gum problems.¹
It Can Promote Tooth Decay
Many e-liquids contain sweeteners and flavoring agents that promote the growth of Streptococcus mutans—a major contributor to cavities. Combined with reduced saliva flow from vaping, these sugary chemicals increase the risk of enamel erosion and dental caries.²
Vaping Affects Gum Health
While traditional cigarettes are more harmful, research shows that vaping still negatively impacts gum health. E-cigarette users experience more plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and deeper pockets around teeth—early warning signs of periodontal disease.³
Potential Long-Term Risk: Oral Cancer
Emerging evidence suggests that vaping may induce DNA damage in oral cells. One study found methylation changes in the oral tissues of e-cigarette users—similar to those seen in early stages of cancer development.⁴
Vaping Causes Dry Mouth
Vaping ingredients like propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin pull moisture from your mouth, leading to dry mouth (xerostomia). A dry mouth isn’t just uncomfortable—it also increases the risk of cavities, bad breath, and gum disease.⁵
Oral Irritation and Lesions
Users have also reported higher instances of ulcers, irritation, and even white patches in the mouth. These oral mucosal changes such as nicotine stomatitis, melanosis, potentially triggered by chemicals in vape aerosols, should not be ignored.⁶
The face of this watch doubles as a vaping device when detached from its wristband. Photo from CNN / Anna Maria Barry-Jester/California Healthline
Parents, Stay Vigilant: Vapes Can Look Like Everyday Items
One of the biggest challenges parents face today is recognizing vaping devices. Unlike traditional cigarettes, vapes are often designed to be discreet—and can easily be mistaken for harmless objects like USB drives, highlighters, pens, smartwatches, or even makeup items. Some are small enough to fit in the palm of a hand or sleeve, making them easy to hide in school bags or pockets. As a parent, it's important to stay informed and talk openly with your children about the dangers of vaping. Be curious about unfamiliar gadgets and maintain regular, judgment-free conversations that encourage honesty. The more you know, the better you can protect your child’s health—and their smile.
Some vapes are often designed to be discreet—and can easily be mistaken for harmless everyday items. Photo from US Food and Drug Authority
The Bottom Line
Vaping is not harmless—especially when it comes to your oral health. While it is being marketed as a less damaging alternative to smoking, growing evidence suggests that e-cigarettes carry their own set of risks. We recommend discussing any concerns about vaping with your dentist. Together, we can help you protect your smile for life.
At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, we urge parents and educators to speak openly with children about the risks of vaping—and encourage regular dental checkups to detect early signs of oral damage.
References
- Electronic Cigarette Aerosol Modulates the Oral Microbiome and Increases Risk of Infection
- A comparison of the caries risk between patients who use vapes or electronic cigarettes and those who do not
- Effects of Electronic Cigarettes on Periodontal Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- Risks of E-cigarettes on oral health and increased susceptibility to oral cancer
- The prevalence of xerostomia among e-cigarette or combustible tobacco users: A systematic review and meta-analysis
- The Impact of E-Cigarettes on Oral Health—A Narrative Review
