What is Zyn? Are Tobacco-Free Products Still Harmful?

Are Nicotine Pouches Like Zyn Harmful to Oral Health?
Nicotine pouches like Zyn, On!, and Velo have gained popularity as smokeless and spit-free alternatives to traditional tobacco products. However, their effects on oral health are a growing concern. While these products do not contain tobacco leaves, they still deliver nicotine, which can have detrimental effects on the mouth. Studies suggest that nicotine can reduce blood flow to the gums, leading to an increased risk of gum disease and recession (Benowitz, 2020). Additionally, the ingredients in nicotine pouches, such as artificial sweeteners and pH adjusters, may contribute to enamel erosion over time (Javed et al., 2017).

What is Nicotine and How Does it Affect the Body?
Nicotine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in the nightshade family of plants, primarily in tobacco leaves. It is a highly addictive stimulant that affects the nervous system by increasing the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which contributes to its addictive nature (Benowitz, 2009). Nicotine can elevate heart rate, increase blood pressure, and restrict blood flow, which has implications for both systemic and oral health. Although nicotine itself is not a carcinogen, its effects on circulation and tissue health make it a significant concern for long-term health outcomes.

Click here to read our prevous blog article on vaping: https://parkblvddentistry.com/2023/05/04/five-things-you-need-to-know-about-e-cigarettes/

Can Nicotine Pouches Cause Gum Recession?
Yes, nicotine pouches can contribute to gum recession. Nicotine is a vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows blood vessels and limits oxygen and nutrient delivery to the gums. Reduced blood flow can impair the body’s ability to repair and maintain healthy gum tissue, potentially leading to gum recession (Benowitz, 2020). Unlike traditional chewing tobacco, nicotine pouches do not contain abrasive particles that can physically wear down gums, but the chemical exposure alone is enough to cause concern.

Do Nicotine Pouches Increase the Risk of Cavities?
While nicotine pouches do not contain sugar, they often include artificial sweeteners and pH-adjusting agents that can alter the oral environment. Some formulations may lower the pH of saliva, making it more acidic, which can contribute to enamel demineralization and an increased risk of cavities (Javed et al., 2017). Additionally, nicotine can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth, which further increases the risk of decay by decreasing the natural washing away of bacteria and food particles (Heckman et al., 2018).

Are Nicotine Pouches Safer for Oral Health Than Traditional Tobacco?
Nicotine pouches are generally considered less harmful than traditional smokeless tobacco products because they do not contain carcinogenic tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs) found in dip or chew (Stepanov et al., 2008). However, “less harmful” does not mean “harmless.” The long-term effects of these pouches on oral tissues are still being studied, and their potential to cause gum disease, enamel erosion, and dry mouth remains a concern. Dental professionals recommend minimizing nicotine exposure altogether to maintain optimal oral health.

We hope this brief summary of the affects of nicotine pouches helps you to make informed decisions. If you know someone who may be interested in this article of any other Dental Health Matters article, feel free to share. If you have any other questions you’d like us to answer, please email us at pbd@parkblvddentistry.com

References

• Benowitz, N. L. (2020). Nicotine and tobacco use: Impact on oral health. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 47(S22), 34-39.
• Benowitz, N. L. (2009). Pharmacology of nicotine: Addiction, smoking-induced disease, and therapeutics. Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 49, 57-71.
• Heckman, B. W., Cummings, K. M., & Nahas, G. J. (2018). The impact of nicotine on salivary function and oral health. Journal of Dental Research, 97(5), 499-507.
• Javed, F., Kellesarian, S. V., Sundar, I. K., Romanos, G. E., & Rahman, I. (2017). Oral toxicology of nicotine and non-nicotine tobacco products. Toxicology Reports, 4, 331-342.
• Stepanov, I., Jensen, J., Hatsukami, D., & Hecht, S. S. (2008). Tobacco-specific nitrosamines in new tobacco products. Tobacco Control, 17(2), 133-139.