Vaping is often seen as a smoother, less irritating alternative to smoking. But for some users, it brings an unexpected side effect—painful mouth ulcers. If you’ve experienced sores, raw patches or irritation inside your mouth after vaping, you’re not alone. Although not everyone is affected, there are clear connections between vaping and oral discomfort, including the development of ulcers. Understanding why this happens can help you avoid or manage it more effectively.
How Vaping Affects the Mouth
Vape devices produce an aerosol containing nicotine, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine, flavourings, and other chemicals. When inhaled, this vapour passes through the mouth, exposing the sensitive tissues of the tongue, gums and cheeks to compounds that can trigger inflammation or dryness.
Nicotine in particular is a known irritant. It reduces blood flow to the tissues in your mouth, which can slow healing and make it easier for ulcers to form or worsen. Even in lower strengths, consistent exposure to nicotine can disrupt the natural balance of your oral environment.
Dehydration and Dry Mouth
One of the more common side effects of vaping is dry mouth. This is largely due to propylene glycol and vegetable glycerine, which both attract and absorb moisture. These ingredients are responsible for the vapour you see, but they can also dry out the lining of your mouth.
When your mouth loses moisture, it becomes more vulnerable to irritation, cracking and the development of ulcers. Saliva plays a critical role in protecting the mouth against bacteria and helping tissues heal. Reduced saliva from frequent vaping leaves you more prone to issues like canker sores and general discomfort.
Sensitivity to Flavourings
Flavourings in e-liquids can also play a role in causing or aggravating mouth ulcers. Some individuals may have mild allergic reactions or sensitivities to certain ingredients, especially strong acidic or menthol-based flavours. These can irritate the lining of the mouth and trigger a localised inflammatory response.
Artificial sweeteners used in vape juice can also cause reactions in a small number of people, especially when used in high volumes or frequently throughout the day.
Changes to Oral Microbiome
Vaping can influence the balance of bacteria in your mouth. While research is still developing, some studies suggest that regular vaping may alter your oral microbiome in ways that mimic the early stages of gum disease. An imbalance in bacteria can create an environment where ulcers are more likely to form or take longer to heal.
Pre-existing Conditions and Compounding Factors
Not everyone who vapes will experience mouth ulcers. Those with pre-existing conditions—such as vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune issues or a history of ulcers—are more likely to be affected. The stress of quitting smoking and switching to vaping can also play a role, as mouth ulcers are a common symptom during nicotine withdrawal or transition periods.
Other habits like biting the inside of the cheek, eating spicy foods or brushing too hard can compound the issue when combined with vaping.
How to Prevent or Manage Ulcers from Vaping
If you suspect your vape is causing mouth ulcers, the first step is to take a break or reduce your usage and see if symptoms improve. Switching to lower nicotine levels, choosing neutral or hypoallergenic flavours, and staying hydrated throughout the day can also make a noticeable difference.
Keeping your oral hygiene in check is essential. Regular brushing, mouthwash use, and staying on top of dental check-ups help reduce the risk of inflammation and infection. Using a saline rinse or over-the-counter ulcer treatment can also speed up healing.
If ulcers persist or worsen despite changes, it’s worth speaking with a dentist or healthcare professional to rule out other causes and get targeted treatment.
Final Word
While vaping doesn’t cause mouth ulcers for everyone, it can definitely be a trigger—especially when paired with dry mouth, high nicotine levels or irritating flavours. If you’ve been affected, adjusting your habits and keeping your mouth well cared for can go a long way in preventing future flare-ups. Staying informed about what’s in your vape and how it affects your body is the best defence against unwanted side effects.
