Does Vaping Cause Painful Canker Sores in the Mouth?

Does Vaping Cause Canker Sores?

Canker sores are small, painful ulcers that can form inside the mouth and on the gums, tongue, and inner lips. Also called aphthous ulcers, canker sores are relatively common, affecting around 20-60% of the population. While canker sores tend to heal on their own within 1-2 weeks, they can be quite painful and irritating in the meantime.

With the rising popularity of vaping, some people wonder if vaping could be linked to canker sores. This article explores the potential connection between vaping and canker sores, including the available research and scientific data.

What Are Canker Sores?

Canker sores are small white or yellowish ulcers characterized by a red border. Unlike cold sores, canker sores do not occur on the outside of the lips or around the mouth. Instead, they form inside the mouth on soft tissues like:

• Cheeks
• Tongue
• Gums
• Floor and roof of the mouth

Canker sores are usually round or oval-shaped and can range from a few millimeters up to around 1 centimeter in diameter. They typically have a white or yellow center with an erythematous halo.

Other common symptoms of canker sores include:

• Tingling, burning, or pain before the sore appears
• Pain or irritation when eating, drinking, or talking
• Redness and inflammation around the sore
• A small white or yellowish crater in the center

Canker sores usually heal on their own within 7-10 days without scarring. Rinsing the mouth with salt water can help reduce pain and inflammation while they heal.

What Causes Canker Sores?

Researchers aren't entirely sure what causes canker sores, but potential contributing factors include:

• Stress or anxiety
• Minor mouth injuries
• Food sensitivities
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Impaired immune system
• Genetics

Canker sores sometimes run in families. They are also more common among people with autoimmune disorders like celiac disease or Crohn's disease.

Acidic or spicy foods can aggravate existing canker sores and make them more painful. Common trigger foods include citrus fruits, tomato sauce, spicy cuisines, chocolate, coffee, nuts, chips, and French fries.

Can Vaping Cause Canker Sores?

There is limited research specifically on the link between vaping and canker sores. However, there are some ways vaping could potentially contribute to canker sores:

Chemical Irritation

The juices used in vape liquids contain various chemicals, flavorings, and propylene glycol. Direct contact with these ingredients could irritate the sensitive tissues in the mouth, especially with prolonged exposure.

One 2019 review found that vaping increases the presence of inflammatory cytokines in oral epithelial cells. This markers of inflammation could make someone more prone to developing canker sores.

Dehydration

Research shows that dehydration could be a contributing factor for canker sores. Vaping can cause dehydration in a few different ways:

• The vapor removes moisture from oral tissues
• Propylene glycol is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs water
• Vaping may suppress thirst signals

Making an effort to stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water could help minimize the risk of developing canker sores.

Oral pH Changes

Some studies suggest that changes in oral pH could contribute to canker sores. Vaping may impact the mouth's pH levels and acidity, potentially making canker sores more likely.

Nicotine

Most vaping liquids contain nicotine, which constricts blood vessels and reduces blood flow throughout the body, including inside the mouth. This diminished blood flow can impair the oral tissues' ability to heal and resist damage.

Some research also indicates that nicotine itself could erode oral mucosa and increase inflammation, possibly putting vapers at a higher risk of canker sores.

Mechanical Irritation

The act of vaping itself could mechanically irritate the tissues of the mouth, especially with prolonged use. The vapor, heat, and contact between the vaping device and oral tissues could cause minor repeated injury that may lead to canker sores in some individuals.

Other Vaping Risks for Oral Health

While more research is still needed, vaping may also pose other potential risks for oral health beyond just canker sores, including:

• Inflammation of gums and periodontal tissues
• Tooth decay
• Diminished wound healing
• Oral thrush and fungal infections
• Changes in oral microbiome
• Halitosis (bad breath)

One analysis found evidence that vaping can adversely affect oral epithelial cells and tissues by impairing cellular metabolism, proliferation, and immunity.

Can You Vape with a Canker Sore?

It's generally not recommended to vape if you have an active canker sore. Vaping can irritate the sore and delay healing. The direct contact with vapor, heat, and flavors can make the pain and inflammation worse.

If you do choose to vape with a canker sore, take precautions like:

• Use a vape with low wattage and temperature.
• Avoid spicy, acidic, or citrus flavors.
• Use a mouthwash formulated for canker sores.
• Rinse your mouth with water after vaping.
• Avoid vaping until the sore has fully healed.

Pay attention to any sores that worsen or fail to heal within 2 weeks. Persistent mouth ulcers could be a sign of an underlying condition and warrant medical evaluation.

Treatment and Prevention of Canker Sores

While canker sores will heal naturally on their own, you can help manage them with methods like:

• Salt water rinses
• Oral pain relievers
• Topical numbing medications
• Avoiding irritating and acidic foods
• Gentle oral hygiene while sore is healing

To help prevent future canker sores:

• Minimize stress
• Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients
• Avoid trauma or injury inside the mouth
• Stop smoking or vaping
• Use SPF lip balm

See your dentist or doctor if you experience frequent or severe canker sores that do not improve with

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.