University of Melbourne and partners release joint position statement on vaping and oral health
The University of Melbourne, in partnership with The Dental Health Services Victoria (DHSV), the Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch, and La Trobe University, has released a joint position statement on vaping and oral health due to the alarming uptake of e-cigarettes, particularly among children, teenagers, and young adults.
According to emerging evidence, the use of e-cigarettes (vaping) can be harmful to oral health, causing mouth and throat irritation, traumatic injuries to the mouth, changes in gum health and oral bacteria, increased risk of tooth decay, and poorer self-reported oral health.
The joint statement highlights the urgent need for strengthened regulation and enforcement of laws to prevent the use of e-cigarettes from having a devastating effect on the oral and general health of Australians. The statement warns that without immediate action, more people will be exposed to potential life-long nicotine addiction.