Comparison of self-rated oral symptoms and periodontal status among cigarette smokers and individuals using electronic nicotine delivery systems.

Introduction:
This article compares the self-rated oral symptoms and periodontal status among cigarette smokers, electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) users, and never-smokers. The study aims to determine if there is a difference in oral health between these groups.

Key Points:

* The study included 105 male participants, divided into four groups: cigarette smokers, electronic cigarette users, JUUL users, and never-smokers.
* Participants were asked about their education level, duration of smoking or ENDS use, daily frequency of ENDS usage, and family history of smoking.
* Clinical periodontal examinations were performed to record plaque index, bleeding on probing, clinical attachment loss, probing depth, and marginal bone loss.
* Radiographs were taken and assessed to measure marginal bone loss.
* The study found that bad breath and pain in gums were more often reported by cigarette smokers compared to ENDS users.
* Compared to never-smokers, cigarette smokers had higher odds ratios for pain in teeth, bad breath, and pain in gums.
* Electronic cigarette users had higher odds ratios for pain in teeth and bleeding gums compared to never-smokers.
* There was no statistically significant difference in self-rated bad breath and pain in gums among electronic cigarette users and never-smokers.
* There was no statistically significant difference in self-rated pain in teeth, bleeding gums, bad breath, and pain in gums when JUUL users were compared with never-smokers and electronic cigarette users.

Main Message:
The study found that cigarette smokers had a higher prevalence of self-reported oral symptoms and worse clinical periodontal parameters compared to ENDS users and never-smokers. The study suggests that despite the perception that ENDS are a safer alternative to cigarettes, they are still associated with poorer oral health outcomes. It is essential to continue to educate the public about the potential risks associated with ENDS use and promote smoking cessation.

Vohra F, Bukhari Ia, Sheikh Sa, albaijan R, Naseem M. Comparison of self-rated oral symptoms and periodontal status among cigarette smokers and individuals using electronic nicotine delivery systems. Journal of american college health : J of aCh. 2020;68(7):788-793. doi:10.1080/07448481.2019.1709476