Switching to Nicotine Pouches May Boost Oral Health, New U.S. Study Finds

Smokers looking for less harmful alternatives may have a new reason to consider nicotine pouches: better oral health. A recently published clinical study in Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry suggests that switching from cigarettes to nicotine pouches could significantly reduce gum inflammation, bleeding, and tooth staining over time.

The U.S.-based study tracked 100 adult smokers over a 24-week period to compare the oral health outcomes of those who continued smoking versus those who transitioned to nicotine pouches. Conducted as a randomised, open-label trial, the research revealed marked improvements in key dental health indicators among the pouch users.

Key Findings: Health Gains Without Quitting Intentions

Participants who switched to on!® pouches experienced:

• 20–30% improvements in gum health markers like the Modified Gingival Index (MGI) and Gingival Bleeding Index (BI) by week 12, with gains continuing up to 28% at week 24.
• A 60% drop in tooth staining scores, as measured by the Lobene Stain Index (LSI).
• Over 90% reduction in cigarette consumption—despite no initial intent to quit smoking.

By contrast, those who continued smoking saw no significant change in their oral health markers across the same time frame.

A Promising Option for Harm Reduction

The study, led by Liu et al., adds to the growing body of evidence supporting nicotine pouches as a harm reduction tool. Experts agree that quitting smoking altogether remains the healthiest choice. Still, for smokers who are unwilling or unable to quit, alternatives like nicotine pouches may offer a meaningful way to reduce exposure to harmful substances found in cigarette smoke.

Nicotine pouches do not contain tobacco and are not burned, which means that consumers are not exposed to tar and other harmful substances found in cigarette smoke. This makes them a discreet and potentially less disruptive option for those looking to move away from smoking.

This research highlights the potential of nicotine pouches as a less harmful alternative—especially when it comes to protecting oral health. As the public continues to seek safer nicotine options, studies like this provide valuable insights into how switching products can impact everyday well-being. Consumers interested in making the switch should consult healthcare professionals to understand the best options for their personal health goals.