The study investigated the increased risk of tooth decay when tooth surfaces were exposed to certain e-cigarette liquids in a controlled environment. A combination of the viscosity of e-cigarette liquids and some classes of chemicals in sweet flavours contributed to the increase.
Scientists systematically evaluated e-cigarette aerosols and found that they have similar physio-chemical properties to high sugar sweets and acidic drinks. The aerosols interacted with the hard tissues of the mouth such as teeth, in such a way that they have a damaging effect. There are more than 400 available e-liquid brands, of which 84% offered fruit flavours and 80% offered sweet dessert flavours.
“This study will give dentists further information to help educate patients that using e-cigarettes can have a detrimental effect on their mouths,” said Thomas Hart, D.D.S., Ph.D., senior director of the ADA Foundation Volpe Research Center.
The study suggests that the impact of e-cigarettes on human health goes beyond respiratory and cardiac systems and may have significant implications on oral health.
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