Oral health practitioners’ knowledge, perceptions, and practices relating to e-cigarettes

Abstract

Objectives

Despite the oral health risks associated with e-cigarette use (i.e., vaping) and the importance of cessation, research exploring the experiences and views of oral health practitioners in relation to e-cigarettes and delivering cessation counselling is limited. This study investigated oral health practitioners’ (i) experiences with the oral health effects of e-cigarette use, (ii) knowledge and perceptions of e-cigarettes, and (iii) confidence in providing cessation advice to patients. We also explored desired support and preferences for training and education related to e-cigarettes.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was completed by 192 oral health practitioners (e.g., dentists, oral health therapists) working in Australia. The survey measured experiences with patient e-cigarette use, perceptions of e-cigarettes, confidence providing patients with cessation advice, and needs and preferences for practitioner training.

Results

There was near universal concern (n = 184, 96 %) regarding the effects of e-cigarette use on oral health. Two-thirds of respondents (n = 122, 65 %) rated their level of knowledge about e-cigarette use and detecting oral health damage from e-cigarette use as low. Only 29 % (n = 56) of respondents believed they had sufficient knowledge to provide advice and support to patients who use e-cigarettes. Interest in education related to e-cigarettes was high, with 98 % (n = 188) of respondents expressing an interest in completing an education module designed specifically for oral health practitioners.

Conclusions

A clear opportunity to improve vaping-related knowledge among oral health practitioners was identified. Providing oral health practitioners with evidence-based education about e-cigarettes and training in the delivery of appropriate cessation support is critical to increasing practitioner knowledge and confidence.

Clinical Significance Statement

Despite the oral health risks associated with e-cigarette use and the importance of cessation, few oral health practitioners report feeling well-supported in their efforts to manage e-cigarette use in their patients. The development of vaping-related resources, clinical guidelines, or training activities for oral health practitioners is urgently needed to facilitate evidence-based discussions with patients.