This is a newer area of research, and the evidence is building. Here's what we know:
How Vaping Could Increase Cavities
- Dry mouth: Less saliva = less acid neutralization and less remineralization. This is the biggest factor.
- Sweet flavorings: Many e-liquids use sweet flavoring compounds. While these aren't sugar, some can still be metabolized by certain bacteria in ways that promote acid production. Others are acidic themselves.
- Altered microbiome: When the oral bacteria shift toward more acid-producing species, your teeth are bathed in more acid for longer periods.
- Frequency of exposure: Unlike eating or drinking, vaping can be continuous throughout the day, meaning teeth are constantly exposed to the same environment.
What the Research Says
A 2023 study at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine found that patients who vaped had a significantly higher rate of new cavities compared to non-vapers over a one-year period. A 2025 study in Caries Research found that e-cigarette aerosol exposure increased the cariogenic (cavity-causing) potential of dental plaque in lab tests.
However, confounding factors exist — vapers may also have different diets, different oral hygiene habits, or other factors that explain the difference.
Evidence: MODERATE — The biological mechanisms are solid, and early clinical studies show an association. But more long-term controlled studies are needed to confirm the magnitude of the effect.
