As vaping continues to grow in popularity across the UK, many people are becoming more curious about its side effects. While it is widely accepted that vaping is a less harmful alternative to smoking, it is not entirely free from potential drawbacks. One question that often comes up is whether vaping can cause mouth ulcers. These small but painful sores can make eating, drinking and speaking uncomfortable, and they tend to appear suddenly without warning. For some users, particularly those new to vaping, the appearance of ulcers inside the mouth may prompt concerns about what is causing them and whether their vape is to blame.

What Are Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small lesions that develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth. They can appear on the inner cheeks, lips, gums or tongue and are often round or oval with a white or yellow centre and a red border. Most ulcers are not contagious and typically heal within a week or two without treatment. However, they can be quite painful and may return frequently for some people. Causes of mouth ulcers include minor injury from brushing or dental work, stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies and reactions to certain foods or substances. Identifying the cause is often a process of elimination.

How Vaping Might Contribute to Mouth Ulcers

Vaping introduces heated vapour into the mouth and throat. This vapour often contains ingredients such as propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine, flavourings and nicotine. In some users, the heat or ingredients can irritate the lining of the mouth, especially if used frequently or with high-strength liquids. Propylene glycol in particular can have a drying effect on the mucous membranes. A dry mouth is more vulnerable to irritation, and the lack of moisture can slow the healing process, making ulcers more noticeable and persistent. Nicotine, a known vasoconstrictor, can reduce blood flow to the tissues in the mouth, which may also hinder healing and potentially contribute to tissue sensitivity.

Flavourings and Sensitivity

Some people may find that certain vape flavours cause discomfort or lead to ulcers. Menthol, cinnamon and citrus flavours in particular have been reported to cause tingling, irritation or even a burning sensation in sensitive individuals. These flavours can be more intense and may trigger a mild allergic reaction or an inflammatory response. If ulcers consistently appear after switching to a specific flavour, it may be worth reverting to a simpler or unflavoured e-liquid to see if the condition improves. While not everyone will experience this sensitivity, those with a history of oral irritation may be more prone to these effects.

Vaping and Immune Response

Stress and changes in immune function are well-known triggers for mouth ulcers. Vaping, especially when containing nicotine, may influence the body's stress levels or affect how well it responds to inflammation and injury. While the connection is not fully understood, some studies suggest that nicotine can suppress immune responses in the mucous membranes, potentially making the tissues more susceptible to damage or slower to heal. This does not mean vaping directly causes ulcers, but it may contribute to an environment where they are more likely to form or less likely to resolve quickly.

Preventing and Managing Mouth Ulcers While Vaping

For those who suspect vaping may be contributing to mouth ulcers, there are a few practical steps that can help. Reducing nicotine strength, staying well hydrated and avoiding strong or irritating flavours may make a difference. It can also help to maintain good oral hygiene, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid toothpaste that contains sodium lauryl sulphate, which can aggravate sensitive tissues. If ulcers continue to appear or worsen over time, it may be worth speaking with a dental professional or healthcare provider to rule out other underlying causes.

Final Thoughts

Vaping can contribute to mouth ulcers in some individuals, especially when combined with factors like dry mouth, tissue sensitivity and immune changes. While it is not a guaranteed cause, there is enough evidence to suggest that for certain users, the ingredients or frequency of vaping may play a role in the development or persistence of these small but painful sores. Paying attention to how your mouth reacts to different e-liquids, flavours and usage patterns can help identify potential triggers. For most people, making small adjustments to their vaping habits and maintaining good oral care can reduce the likelihood of irritation and support a healthier mouth overall.