Oral Health Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Young Adult Vapers

Objectives: To describe the knowledge, attitudes, and practices in the oral health of a group of vapers, considering the likely ignorance of the population concerning the consequences upon the oral cavity of using the e-cigarette.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out on people who use vaper devices between 18 to 70 years old (Fifty-two men and 27 women, with an average age of 28.7 years) A previously validated structured survey was built and applied to measure the knowledge, attitudes, and practices in oral health. This instrument was disseminated through social networks and shared through the virtual platform Google Forms. It has been analyzed qualitative and quantitative variables through frequency and percentage distribution.
Results: A total of 79 people, 52 men, and 27 women between 18 and 35 years old, were the participants. The average age was 28.7 years (SD = +/- 8.3). Regarding educational level, 54% of the participants have university studies. Regarding the socioeconomic stratum, 42% belong to level 2, and 75% of the participants belong to the contributory health regime. Regarding their oral health knowledge, all the participants used a toothbrush and toothpaste, and 76.6% used other oral hygiene implements such as dental floss. Although they are not unaware of them, they are not for everyday use. 92.4% of the participants know those mouth problems affect systemic health. 17.6% have not attended a dental appointment for more than a year vs. 45.5% who have attended at least during the last six months. The frequency concerning electronic device use is 1 to 2 days a week at 49.3%.
Conclusions: The knowledge regarding the oral implications of vaping was insufficient among the participants. A primary health education program is necessary for this population that promotes the acquisition of healthy lifestyle habits.