Vaping has been linked to increased plaque levels and inflammatory markers, according to a new systematic review.

The review also found that tobacco smoking had consistently worse outcomes for gum health.

The article, ‘The impact of e-cigarette use on periodontal health: a systematic review and meta-analysis’, was published in Evidence-Based Dentistry (EBD) and explored the impact of e-cigarette use on gum health. It compared vape users with non-smokers, former smokers and tobacco smokers.

E-cigarette users were found to have had higher levels of plaque compared to non-smokers/formers smokers. The review also revealed that vape use caused greater inflammatory markers compared to non-smokers.

Nigel Carter, CEO of the Oral Health Foundation, said, "While smoking was firmly linked to the worst results for gum health, vaping was linked to higher levels of plaque and inflammation – this raises concerns about possible risks. The review found that nicotine can mask gum disease symptoms by reducing bleeding, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

"Researchers have concluded that vaping is generally better for gum health than smoking, but further studies are needed to establish this."

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