Policy on Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS)
Purpose
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recognizes the increased use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) among children and adolescents. This policy intends to educate professionals, parents, and patients about electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). Nicotine is highly addictive and has negative effects on brain development from the prenatal period into adolescence.1 In order to reduce health risks caused by nicotine addiction, the AAPD supports routine screening for tobacco use, treating tobacco dependence, preventing tobacco use among children and adolescents, and educating the public on the health and societal costs of use of e-cigarettes/ENDS.