Evaluation of Peri-Implant Immunological Parameters amongst Subjects Vaping E-Cigarettes and Non-Smokers

Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate peri-implant immunological parameters along with clinical and radiographic parameters amongst subject’s vaping e-cigarettes and non-smokers (NS). Two immunological parameters that were included were measurement of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and interleukin (IL)-1β. Materials and Methods: A statistically significant no. of subjects were included in the study and further divided into two groups: Group-1: Vaping e-cigs (n=47) Group-2: Non-smokers (n=45). A structured questionnaire was used at baseline for data collection related to demographic and peri-implant data of each individual. Baseline parameters included Plaque Index, Bleeding on probing, probing pocket depth and peri-implant bone loss (PI, BOP, PD and PIBL respectively) for those vaping e-cigs and non-smokers with the aid of standardized digital radiographs. ELISA kit was used to assess immunologic parameters using sulcular fluid collected from peri-implant region (PISF). Results: Bleeding on probing (BOP) was found significantly high in non-smokers compared to the vaping group. But probing depth greater than 4mm and PIBL scores were significantly higher in vaping group than non-smokers. Mean concentrations of immunologic parameters were significantly higher in vaping group than in non-smokers. TNFα levels and IL-1β levels were found to have a positive correlation with bone loss around implants (PIBL). Besides TNFα also had a positive correlation with bleeding on probing in vaping group compared to non-smokers. Conclusions: Owing to the effect of nicotine on the peri-implant tissue, levels of inflammatory mediators as detected by ELISA test were found to be higher showing a greater amount of localized inflammatory tissue destruction and a compromised peri-implant area in vaping subjects. PISF concentrations were also found relatively higher than non-smokers.