Keywords
Dental Caries
Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction: Electronic cigarettes (ECs), which emerged in the 2000s, have gained popularity among young people due to their variety of flavors and the perception of lower health risks. However, their use may promote the growth of bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, which are associated with dental caries. While there are concerns about irritations and oral cancer, the connection between ECs and caries remains underexplored. Objective: This study aims to discuss the relationship between dental caries and the use of electronic cigarettes among young people, analyzing how this practice may contribute to the occurrence of this chronic disease. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review addressing the relationship between dental caries and the use of electronic cigarettes by youth. Searches were conducted in PUBMED using the following descriptors: “Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems” AND “Oral Health” AND “Dental Caries” in English and Portuguese, resulting in 317 studies. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 10 studies were selected for analysis, encompassing various methodologies, including experimental studies, in vivo studies, and case reports. Results: The analysis of the 10 studies revealed that the majority (60%) were laboratory experimental studies. These studies indicate that nicotine and components of e-liquids increase the adhesion of S. mutans, favoring the development of caries. The chemical substances in electronic cigarettes may alter the oral microbiota and generate acids harmful to enamel. The review highlights the need for a deeper understanding of the risks posed by electronic cigarettes to oral health, particularly among young people. Conclusion: The use of electronic cigarettes may increase the risk of dental caries by promoting thick, cariogenic biofilms, altering the oral microbiota, and causing chemical damage to dental enamel. However, the current evidence is not conclusive, and long-term studies with better control of variables are needed.
References
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Copyright (c) 2025 Raquel Rosa Figueiredo França, Marcos Felipe de Moura Chaves Moura Chaves, Giselly Maria Alvarenga Fernandes, Stefane Martins de Queiroz , Pabblo Gabriel Bezerra Bandeira Torres, Geovana Thais Ribeiro Cruz , Lucas Thiago Ferreira de Sousa , Sarah Letícia Pereira Araújo, Lucas Vinicius Albuquerque da Silva, Rudyan Victor Macêdo Barbosa, Kariny Maria das Neves Silva, Morgana Marielle de Almeida Costa
