Vaping, HPV, and Oral Cancer Awareness

In this episode, I’m diving into a topic that’s not getting nearly enough attention—especially when it comes to our kids: the connection between vaping, HPV, and oral cancer. April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and I wanted to have a real, honest conversation about how the risk factors are changing, why younger populations are now being affected, and what that means for us as parents. This isn’t about fear—it’s about awareness and understanding what’s actually happening inside the mouth.   I also share personal experiences, both as a dental hygienist and a mom, and break down what vaping is really doing to the oral environment, how HPV plays a role, and why things like mouth breathing and dryness matter more than we think. We’ll talk about what to look for, how to catch things early, and how to approach these conversations with your teens in a way that actually keeps them open and listening.   Links & Resources   Suvia Mouth Rinse (alcohol-free, safe for daily use): www.mouthwash.com   A little awareness now can make a big difference later. If this episode helped you think differently or gave you something valuable to take away, please share it with another parent. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review—it helps us reach more families and continue spreading this important message.   Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy   Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min