Nicotine Pouches: A Sweet Threat to Teens' Gum Health?

Nicotine pouches are gaining popularity, especially among teens. But are these sweet-flavored pouches wreaking havoc on their gum health? Let's dive into the risks.

Nicotine pouches, the new 'it' thing after the vape ban, are raising concerns, especially among teens. These sweet-flavored pouches, though seemingly harmless, can seriously mess with your gums. Let's break it down.

What are Nicotine Pouches?

These are small, often white, pouches containing nicotine. You stick them between your lip and gum, letting the nicotine absorb into your bloodstream. A recent UK survey shows usage doubled from 2020 to 2024. While seen as less risky than smoking, they're not risk-free.

The Gum Health Crisis

Here's the lowdown on how these pouches can damage your gums:

Increased Gum Disease Risk

Nicotine shrinks blood vessels in your gums, cutting off blood flow and oxygen. This slows healing, worsens gum damage, and boosts your chances of gum disease.

Gum Recession and Tooth Decay

Pouches pressed against your gums can cause them to recede, exposing tooth roots and hiking up sensitivity and decay risk.

Inflammation and Bone Loss

Constant pouch contact leads to inflammation, causing redness, swelling, and soreness. Over time, this inflammation can destroy bone around your teeth, messing with their stability.

Plaque Build-up

Regular use can also cause plaque build-up and bacterial growth, increasing the chances of gingivitis and periodontitis.

Teens at Risk

Kids and teens are particularly vulnerable. They can technically buy these pouches legally right now, thanks to looser regulations compared to vapes and cigarettes. The long-term health risks are still unknown, but the immediate oral health issues are clear.

The Unsweet Truth

While the long-term effects need more research, the short-term damage to gum health is a real concern. Oral lesions, dry mouth, soreness, and weird jaw sensations are all potential side effects.

A Final Thought

So, nicotine pouches might seem like a sweet escape, but they're playing a sour note on your gum health, especially for teens. Something to chew on, right?