Experts Caution Against Lingering Effects of ‘Vaper’s Tongue’

A recent article published on LADbible sheds light on the concerning long-term effects of ‘vaper’s tongue,’ a condition that may make vaping less appealing for many. While vaping is often considered a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes, health experts continue to highlight its potential risks, including this little-known condition.

‘Vaper’s tongue’ is described as the temporary loss or reduction of the ability to taste flavors while vaping. According to dental experts, factors such as smoking history, dehydration, overexposure to certain flavors, and desensitization can contribute to this phenomenon. As vaping remains popular among many seeking an alternative to traditional smoking, the long-term consequences of this habit are only beginning to surface.

The Long-Term Effects of Vaper’s Tongue

In a YouTube interview hosted by Dental Economics, Dr. Pamela Maragliano-Muniz and pharmacist Tom Viola, RPh, CCP, discussed the impact of vaping on oral health. Viola explained that the heat generated by vape pens, which can reach temperatures of 120°C-150°C, can lead to scalding of oral tissues. “You’re inhaling that vape, that vape mist or aerosol, [and it] doesn’t have enough time to cool off between the end of the vape pen and your mucosa, so you end up scalding, or burning, or somehow injuring your tongue,” he stated.

The pharmacist further elaborated on how the high temperatures affect the taste buds located at the back of the tongue, leading to a diminished ability to taste. “The temperature still is pretty high when it gets to the back of your tongue where a lot of your taste buds are located, and so the association there is ‘I don’t taste anything anymore,'” Viola noted. He warned that this condition could prevent individuals from tasting pleasant flavors and might even make some foods taste unpleasant.

Additionally, Viola pointed out that vaping can contribute to xerostomia, or dry mouth, which affects the distribution of saliva and food particles around the taste buds. This condition can exacerbate the symptoms of ‘vaper’s tongue,’ further diminishing an individual’s ability to taste their food properly.

Are the Effects of Vaper’s Tongue Permanent?

Many vapers are concerned about whether the effects of ‘vaper’s tongue’ are permanent. According to Viola, cessation of vaping can lead to a recovery of taste over time. “I think a lot of people realise that if they were to stop vaping for a certain period, they would find their xerostomia would clear up and their taste does return,” he said.

However, Viola also acknowledged the addictive nature of vaping, which makes it challenging for users to quit. “But you know, vaping itself is addictive and it’s really hard to stop vaping once it’s become part of your lifestyle,” he added.

The Need for Further Research

Despite growing concerns from dental professionals and pharmacists, research into ‘vaper’s tongue’ remains limited. Benjamin Chaffee, a professor at the University of California San Francisco School of Dentistry, highlighted the lack of scientific understanding surrounding the condition. “There’s not currently reliable evidence to indicate how common the condition is or the mechanisms causing it,” Chaffee told Healthline. “This is another example of the many things we do not know about how vaping affects the body. It’s a reason for more research and a reason to approach these products with caution.”

Preventing Vaper’s Tongue

Experts, including Dr. Rhona Eskander from dentalphobia.co.uk, suggest preventive measures for those experiencing symptoms of ‘vaper’s tongue.’ Dr. Eskander recommends switching vape flavors regularly, staying hydrated, and using scent resets such as smelling coffee beans to mitigate olfactory fatigue. She emphasized the importance of consulting a healthcare professional if taste issues persist, as they could indicate underlying health concerns.

“Vaper’s tongue, or the temporary loss or reduction in the ability to taste flavours when vaping, can occur for several reasons when using vape devices,” Dr. Eskander stated. While she reassured that the condition is typically temporary and reversible, she cautioned that it might mask other, more severe health issues.