Nicotine pouches are some of the most life-changing and life-saving inventions out on the market today. More and more people are now finding the use of nicotine pouch products essential in helping them quit the use of traditional tobacco, get a buzz in a healthier way, and allow them to explore different flavors of nicotine.

However, some people might have questions about the effects of nicotine pouches on oral health. We’re here to break down how nicotine pouches work, why their nicotine effects are better than those of traditional tobacco products, and if the effects of nicotine are detrimental to oral health.

What are Nicotine Pouch Products?

Nicotine pouches are small pouches similar to tobacco snus. They are made of 100% synthetic nicotine and do not have any tobacco products. Contrary to popular belief, nicotine does not cause cancer, but tobacco does.

As such, nicotine is a safer alternative to tobacco snus for those looking to quit smoking or tobacco in general. Nicotine pouches come in a variety of concentrations, including 3mg and 6mg pouches. The nicotine is absorbed through the bloodstream by being placed in between the lip and the gum. The nicotine can be absorbed in as little as 5 minutes and can last up to 60 minutes.

Nicotine Effects

Nicotine pouch products cause several effects on the body. These include:

• Tingling sensation
• Feelings of relaxation
• Feelings of euphoria
• Increased alertness
• Heart palpitations
• Heightened mood
• Better memory

Nicotine pouches can be a pleasurable experience that’s a great alternative to tobacco products. However, they do cause changes to the inside of the mouth. However, these changes don’t necessarily lead to gum disease.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an oral illness also known as periodontitis. Gum disease occurs after gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis occurs as a result of poor oral hygiene. When people fail to brush their teeth, plaque and tartar build up on the teeth. This then leads to inflammation of the gums which can cause:

• Bleeding gums (especially when brushing teeth)
• Receding gums
• Red gums
• Swollen gums
• Bad breath
• Tooth sensitivity
• Bad breath

Fortunately, the symptoms of gingivitis can be reversed by practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing twice a day. In addition, gum disease takes quite a bit to progress.

Gum Disease Vs. Gingivitis

Gum disease should not be confused with gingivitis. Gingivitis leads to gum disease only after the gums erode enough to cause deep pockets in between the teeth and gums that then become infected.

As the body tries to fight off the infection, it erodes the gums more and more by attacking the site of the infection. Gum disease, unlike gingivitis, is not reversible, but there are steps you can take to improve your oral hygiene before you reach the gum disease stage.

Nicotine Pouches and Gum Disease

Nicotine pouches have a tendency to decrease saliva production, causing dry mouth.

Although it’s generally safe to swallow saliva produced from snus (unlike loose tobacco products such as dip), some people might choose to spit it out, causing even more dry mouth symptoms.

Dry mouth is not a direct cause of gingivitis or gum disease, but dry mouth can mimic some of the effects of gingivitis and gum disease, such as bad breath. In addition, dry mouth can make it difficult for saliva to naturally clear away plaque and tartar, increasing the risk of gum disease and gingivitis.

However, there are no conclusive studies that link nicotine pouches to gum disease.

Improving Oral Health

Although nicotine pouches don’t necessarily lead to gum disease, it is important to know how to use them responsibly and prevent gingivitis from forming.

If you have an existing cavity or have just experienced oral surgery, it’s best to stay away from using nicotine pouches, as this can lead to infection with an open wound.

In addition, you should not use nicotine pouches by eating the pouch itself. Rather, let the nicotine be absorbed naturally through the gum. For more oral hygiene tips:

• Brush and floss your teeth twice a day
• Visit a dentist at least once a year for help
• Use mouthwash if necessary to get rid of extra plaque
• Consider oral surgery or braces if you have existing oral health issues, such as teeth crowding

Nicotine Pouch Use For Improved Health

There are currently no studies that definitively link nicotine pouches to gum disease. However, there are many studies that link traditional tobacco products like dip and tobacco snus to other, more serious oral health issues such as cancer.

You can help lower your risk of cancer by using nicotine products! Shop our line of products, and remember to reach out to your doctor or dentist for any oral health concerns.