What is ‘Vaping’ and what are the reasons for use?

A new trend using e-cigarettes, also known as vaping, works by heating a liquid to generate an aerosol that the user inhales. The liquid in the e-cigarette, called e-liquid, is usually made up of propylene glycol, glycerin, flavorings, water, and nicotine. Generally e-cigarette users tend to reach lower blood nicotine concentrations compared to tobacco smokers; it is difficult to measure nicotine in e-liquid because it varies widely.

Reasons individuals vape include the following:

• Smoking cessation
• The thought that vaping is less harmful than cigarettes
• Circumvention of smoke-free areas
• Recreational enjoyment

Sudden Increase in Use:

Irresponsible marketing has made an easy target for the younger population. E-cigarettes appeal to the population because the fruity flavors the liquid is marketed as and the idea that vaping is less harmful then cigarettes. Cigarette use has been steadily decreasing since 2014 among middle and high school students well vaping has increased to 78% from 2017 to 2018.

Next: Vaping and Oral Health Part 2: What makes it so Bad for Oral Health?