Study to probe oral health impact of nicotine pouches
April 17, 2026
Photo: iStock
Dental researchers at Newcastle Hospitals and Newcastle University have launched a new study to examine the effects of nicotine pouches on oral health, amid growing use of the products and limited evidence on their long-term safety.
Nicotine pouches, which are placed between the lip and gum to deliver nicotine without tobacco, are widely regarded as a lower-toxicity alternative to cigarettes. However, researchers say there is a lack of robust, independent data on how regular use may affect the mouth, teeth and gums over time.
The study, led by the National Institute for Health and Care Research Dental Clinical Research Facility in Newcastle, will gather information directly from users through an anonymous online survey. Participants will be asked about their nicotine pouch use and any changes they may have noticed in their oral health, including effects on gums, teeth, cheeks or tongue.
Respondents will also have the option to upload photographs of the inside of their mouth, enabling researchers to assess visible changes that may be linked to pouch use. In addition, dental professionals are being invited to contribute observations from clinical practice, highlighting any patterns seen among patients who use nicotine pouches.
A small number of participants will be selected for further clinical assessment at the research facility, with tests potentially including oral biopsies where appropriate.
The project is being overseen by Dr Richard Holliday, honorary consultant in restorative dentistry at Newcastle Hospitals and senior lecturer at Newcastle University. He said the rise of nicotine pouches as an alternative to smoking and vaping has outpaced the available scientific evidence.
“Although nicotine pouches are tobacco-free, there remains a lack of robust, independent research on their long-term impact on oral health,” he said, adding that the study aims to generate evidence to inform future health guidance.
The research is funded by the Oral and Dental Research Trust and the British Society for Oral and Dental Research. Findings are expected to contribute to the wider evidence base as regulators and health bodies continue to assess the role of nicotine pouches as a tobacco harm reduction tool.
