Abstract
BACKGROUND: This review aimed to evaluate the impact of e-cigarette usage on oral health, given the rising popularity of e-cigarettes and their perceived lower risk compared to traditional smoking. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Searches were conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus databases for studies from January 2014 to December 2023. Eligibility was based on the PICOS criteria. Data extraction was performed by two independent investigators. Studies were assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) Quality Assessment Tool. RESULTS: The review included 31 studies, primarily from the USA and Saudi Arabia: 12 cross-sectional, nine case-control, five prospective observational, and five RCTs. Findings showed that clinical periodontal conditions and pro-inflammatory marker levels in e-cigarette users were similar to non-users and lower than conventional cigarette smokers. Dental issues studied included fractures, pain, decay, sensitivity, and loss. Two studies examined harmful metabolites in e-cigarette users. Most studies had low-quality evidence, relying on self-reported data without considering other influencing factors. CONCLUSION: E-cigarette users may experience more changes in oral tissues compared to non-smokers and former smokers.