Dentists play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and detecting potential dental issues. When it comes to vaping, dentists have a responsibility to educate patients and their parents about its potential impact on oral health, including the potential for nicotine addiction and other health concerns. Whether or not dentists inform parents about vaping depends on various factors, such as the patient's age, the frequency and severity of vaping, and the dentist's judgment.
If a dentist discovers that a young patient is vaping, they may choose to inform the parents to raise awareness about the potential risks and encourage them to discuss the issue with their child. Dentists may also offer guidance on smoking cessation and provide resources to help the patient quit vaping. However, in some cases, dentists may maintain confidentiality, especially if the patient is an adult or if they believe that informing the parents could harm the patient's well-being.