Nicotine Pouches May Lead to Healthier Smiles

• An American study compared 100 smokers over 6 months, with half switching to nicotine pouches
• Nicotine pouch users experienced reduced gum bleeding and tooth discolouration
• Cigarette consumption dropped among pouch users
• Nicotine pouches avoid some of the harmful substances associated with smoking
• The study positions nicotine pouches as a tool in harm reduction

The study, published in Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry, followed 100 adult smokers over six months. Half continued smoking as usual, while the other half switched to nicotine pouches.

The results of the study were clear. Among the nicotine pouch users:

• Gum health improved by up to 30% after just 3 months, with significantly less bleeding
• Tooth discolouration decreased by as much as 60%
• Cigarette consumption dropped by more than 90%, even though participants had not originally intended to quit smoking

By contrast, no improvements were seen among those who continued smoking.

Unlike cigarettes, nicotine pouches contain neither tobacco leaves nor tar, and they are not burned. This means avoiding many of the harmful substances produced by smoking. For oral health, that translates to less gum irritation and fewer stains on the teeth.

Researchers still stress that the very best option for health is to stop using nicotine altogether. However, for those not yet ready, nicotine pouches may represent a considerably less harmful alternative.

The study, carried out by researchers Liu, Edmiston, Wang, Milleman, Milleman, Yoder, Gogova and Sarkar, reinforces the view of nicotine pouches as a tool in harm reduction.

For many, they may serve as a bridge between smoking and a completely nicotine-free life – while also contributing to healthier mouths and brighter smiles along the way.