E-cigarettes and vaping: Educational strategies for the dental professional

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A peer-reviewed article written by Jennifer S. Sherry, MSEd, RDH

E-cigarettes and vaping: Educational strategies for the dental professional

Nicotine vaporizers and electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) continue to be a popular trend in the adult and adolescent population. Besides causing harm to a person’s lungs, vaping can have negative effects on the oral cavity, such as stomatitis and ulcerations in the mouth. Tobacco-containing products have been associated with both immediate and long-term adverse oral and systemic effects. Dental professionals may feel uncomfortable discussing the ill effects of vaping due to a lack of knowledge regarding the different types of products. Collaboration between medical and dental professionals will assist in providing a consistent and valuable educational message.Educational objectivesAt the conclusion of this educational activity, participants will be able to:

1. Discuss the history of e-cigarettes
2. Identify the many contents in e-liquid
3. Describe the vast legislative changes in vaping within the last several years
4. List the negative effects of vaping on the human body
5. Utilize the educational flowchart to educate patients about vaping

Jennifer S. Sherry, MSEd, RDH, is an associate professor in the dental hygiene program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. She teaches radiology, head and neck anatomy, advanced periodontics clinic, ethics/practice management/effective communication, and community oral health. Her research interests include child and senior health issues, public health, clinical dental hygiene, and improving access to oral health services.

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