What dental professionals need to know about snus and nicotine pouches

Patric Aria Saraby explores the impact of snus and nicotine pouches on gingival tissues and the oral mucosa.

As smokeless nicotine products gain popularity in the UK, particularly among younger adults, dental professionals are seeing new patterns of oral soft tissue pathology.

Products like snus and nicotine pouches are often promoted as ‘healthier’ alternatives to smoking, but their prolonged contact with the gingiva and oral mucosa can result in significant changes to these tissues.

This article explores their effects, provides clinical guidance, and outlines key patient education strategies.

Snus and nicotine pouches

• Snus is a moist, tobacco-containing product placed under the upper lip. Common in Scandinavia, it is illegal to sell in the UK but remains in use via personal imports
• Nicotine pouches, unlike snus, are tobacco-free. They deliver pharmaceutical grade nicotine through the oral mucosa, are legal and widely available in UK supermarkets and online.

Both products rest directly on the mucosa and gingival tissue, leading to localised exposure and potential oral health implications.

Effects on gingival tissues and oral mucosa

Localised gum recession and mucosal lesions

Prolonged placement causes mechanical trauma and chemical irritation. Users often develop localised gingival recession and snus-induced lesions (SILs), which may appear keratotic or leukoplakic. This can result in localised gum disease.