In the Philippines, businesses are open, hospitals are functioning, and modern conveniences are everywhere. Yet behind this appearance of progress lies a growing public health concern: the rise of vaping among teenagers.

Marketed as fashionable and often perceived as a safer alternative to smoking, vaping has quietly embedded itself into youth culture. Unfortunately, its long-term impact on oral and dental health is becoming increasingly evident.

Why Teenagers Are Turning to Vaping

• Easy access to vape products despite age restrictions
• Appealing flavors such as fruit, candy, and desserts
• Strong influence from social media and peers
• The belief that vaping is harmless or smoke-free

Without strong odor or visible smoke, vaping often goes unnoticed by parents until oral health damage has already begun.

Dental Research Findings

Dental research shows that e-liquids and chemical aerosols from vapes can cling to tooth surfaces, especially smooth enamel areas. These residues feed harmful bacteria that produce acid.

Over time, this acid weakens enamel, leading to cavities, sensitivity, and early tooth damage—even in young and otherwise healthy individuals.

What Dentists Call “Vape Caries”

Dentists are now observing a condition known as “vape caries”, where smooth surfaces of teeth develop rapid enamel breakdown. This pattern is increasingly common among teenagers who vape regularly.

Clinical Case Observation

Patient Profile:

• 16 years old
• No cigarette smoking history
• Daily vaping for over one year
• Reports regular tooth brushing

Dental Findings:

• Early enamel erosion on front and side teeth
• Sensitivity to cold drinks
• Mild gum irritation and dry mouth
• Multiple cavities within 6–12 months

Despite appearing healthy, the patient experienced rapid dental deterioration, showing how vaping damage can progress quietly.

Why Vaping Damage Is Often Missed

Vaping causes no immediate pain, smoke, or burning sensation. Damage happens slowly at a microscopic level.

Nicotine also reduces saliva, causing dry mouth. This allows bacteria to thrive and accelerates tooth decay and gum disease.

Impact on the Next Generation

While dental clinics and hospitals continue treating symptoms, uncontrolled youth vaping remains a growing threat.

• Early dental treatments and restorations
• Higher long-term healthcare costs
• Preventable damage lasting into adulthood

Dental Advice and Prevention

• Educate teens and parents about vaping risks
• Schedule dental check-ups every 4–6 months
• Increase water intake to reduce dry mouth
• Seek dental care at the first sign of enamel damage

Preventing vaping is far more effective than repairing its long-term damage.

Vaping may appear modern and harmless, but its effects on teenage oral health tell a different story. “Vape caries” is real and silently affecting the future generation.

Through awareness, education, and early dental intervention, young smiles can be protected today—and for the future.

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