The Impact of Smoking and Vaping in Teenagers Regarding Periodontal Healing and Surgical Prognosis

Cigarette smoking and vaping use among adolescents are increasing worldwide. Conventional (tobacco cigarette) and e-cigarette (e-cigarette; vaping) smoking is associated with periodontal disease progression and impaired wound healing after oral or periodontal surgery. However, adolescents constitute a vulnerable subgroup due to their developing craniofacial structures, changes in hormonal status, and behavioral practices that may increase the toxicity of nicotine and other toxins. The objective of this work was to provide a summary of evidence related to the influence of adolescent smoking and vaping on periodontal healing and surgical outcomes. The basic biologic processes, clinical implications, and management considerations of this age group, who are managed in the clinical setting with or without periodontal/oral surgery, were addressed. Adolescent smokers/vapers heal less well after surgery. These effects may be minimized by including the assessment of preoperative risk, patient education, and personalized postoperative management in the everyday work of the physician. Cessation programs for adolescents and prevention programs are very important adjuncts to improving oral health.