Study of dental status, sialometry, alpha-amylase levels and oral fluid microcrystallization in vape smokers

The aim of the research – to study the dental status, sialometry, alpha-amylase levels, and oral fluid microcrystallization in vape smokers. 52 patients aged 19 to 21 were examined. They were divided into two groups: a study group of 27 (10 women and 17 men) who use vape, and a comparison group of 25 (7 women and 18 men) who do not smoke. Subjects underwent an oral examination, determination of the DMF and OHI-s indices, sialometry, determination of oral fluid alpha-amylase levels, and a mixed saliva microcrystallization study. Statistical analysis was performed using the R software environment. In the group of smoking the OHI-S value was 2.2 ± 0.77 points, the DMF index was 9 ± 0.83 points, in the group of non-smoking the OHI-S value was 0.8 ± 0.92 points (the differences are statistically significant compared to the group of non-smoking, p<0.05), and the DMF index was 5 ± 0.75 (p<0.05). The results of the sialometry showed a decrease in the level of salivation in smoking students – 0.45 ± 0.1 ml/min compared to non-smokers – 0.68 ± 0.1 ml/min (p< 0.05). The pH level of oral fluid in the group of smoking was 7.6 ± 0.46 units, in the group of non-smoking – 7.25 ± 0.4 units. A 12.6% increase in alpha-amylase activity (p<0.05) was detected in the smoking group. A study of the morphological characteristics of mixed saliva microcrystals revealed destructive changes in oral tissues, signs of impaired microcirculation due to intoxication, and a predominance of organic substances in oral fluid. The results indicate a negative impact of vaping on dental health, as well as on the composition and properties of saliva, which may contribute to the development of dental diseases.

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