White Snus – A Nicotine Trap

According to the Swedish Public Health Agency, the use of white snus has increased significantly in recent years, with the most notable rise among young women (1). Despite this, only just over half of the adult population is aware of what white snus is (2).

White snus, also known as nicotine snus, is marketed as tobacco-free but often contains higher levels of nicotine compared to tobacco snus. However, the nicotine taste is masked by sweetened flavoring (3). Nicotine, which is released from tobacco, is highly addictive and acutely toxic. It has a range of serious health effects. Research has shown that it can impact blood pressure and heart rate, which in the long term may lead to cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, it has been established that nicotine increases the risk of type 2 diabetes (1,2).

The marketing of white snus has been designed to appear more appealing, particularly in ads targeted at younger audiences and women. The advertisements emphasize the product's "fresher" qualities and offer a wide range of flavors and aesthetically pleasing packaging.

The Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare reports that young people who begin using nicotine early often develop a stronger addiction that is difficult to break. This is especially true for young people with neuropsychiatric disabilities, such as ADHD. Despite research showing that attempts to quit smoking with other nicotine products often worsen addiction and lead to harmful mixed-use, white snus has been marketed as a less harmful alternative to tobacco snus and cigarettes, which is concerning (2).

The effects of white snus on oral health, however, are still not fully known. Stockholm Public Dental Health has therefore initiated a comprehensive study with 300 participants to map the effects of white snus on oral health.

Several dentists and specialists have noted that the mucosal changes caused by white snus differ from those caused by tobacco snus, as it affects a larger area with wound-like changes. There is suspicion that this is due to the high nicotine content and that the chemical substances used for flavoring trigger allergic reactions, especially the mint flavor (4).

When experiencing wound-like mucosal changes, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene. It is recommended to use an extra-soft toothbrush for gentle brushing with a mild toothpaste without mint. To keep between the teeth clean, an extra-soft interdental brush of the right size should be used.

By introducing stricter regulations, such as higher age limits, minimum nicotine content requirements, and control of marketing, we can reduce nicotine dependence and promote good oral health.