CIGARETTES VERSUS ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES: THE EFFECTS ON THE ORAL CAVITY

Objectives: To date, there is a large amount of scientific evidence on the effects of smoke-free products on oral health, highlighting their potential in reducing the risk of causing and progressing smoking-related diseases. In contrast to the last statement, other studies confirm the cytotoxic and tissue effects of nicotine-containing e-cigarette liquid. The purpose of this study was to review the literature and to evaluate the damage caused by cigarette smoking in comparison with that caused by e-cigarettes. Methods: Our study considered the consultation of the bibliographic databases “Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System”. The research was carried out by using the keywords: “Cigarette” AND “E-cigarette” AND “oral cancer caused by smoking” AND “cigarette toxicology” AND “cigarette toxicology”. Results: Research related to the impact on oral health of e-cigarette usage began in 2011 with the publication of 26 studies. Those studies were focused primarily on nicotine-related harms, subsequently evaluating the adverse effects on the oral cavity of other chemical components released during the inhalation. Conclusions: The use of smoke-free products can negatively affect oral health when compared to abstaining from smoking. This confirms that smoke-free alternative products are not risk-free as they contain nicotine, an addictive substance, and the best choice for any smoker remains to stop using tobacco and nicotine-containing products. © 2026, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Faculty of Dental Medicine.