In a recent development, concerns have been raised about the potential dental health risks associated with the use of Zyn nicotine pouches, following social media influencer Emma Chamberlain’s revelation about her dental issues. Chamberlain, who has a massive following on TikTok, shared that her gum recession was worsening, attributing it to her use of Zyn. This prompted orthodontist and TikTok user Dr. Sable (@bracesbysable) to weigh in on the matter, warning about the adverse effects of Zyn on oral health.
Dr. Sable explained that many users might not be aware of the damage Zyn can cause to their gums. She highlighted that placing the nicotine pouch in the same spot repeatedly can lead to severe gum loss and bone loss along the gum line. This, combined with inadequate flossing, can result in irreversible gum recession. The only solutions for such damage are gum grafts or ongoing management of the condition.
In her TikTok video, Dr. Sable urged young users to reconsider their use of Zyn and to consult their dentists about their nicotine pouch habits. She emphasized the long-term consequences of gum loss, including severe sensitivity and pain, which can significantly impact one’s quality of life as they age. Her message was clear: stop using Zyn and prioritize oral health to avoid future complications.
The discussion around Zyn’s impact on dental health gained traction after Chamberlain’s video went viral. While some commenters were unfamiliar with Zyn, those who knew about it were aware of its risks. One user questioned why anyone would use Zyn without considering its potential harm to their teeth.
In response to the growing concerns, a Zyn representative clarified in an email to the Daily Dot that Zyn is intended for adult smokers and nicotine users aged 21 and older as a safer alternative to smoking. The representative also noted that Zyn does not contain tobacco leaf. However, a 2023 article in the British Dental Journal indicated that the oral health effects of nicotine pouches are still largely unknown but are likely similar to other orally administered nicotine products, potentially causing localized gingival recession.
Dr. Sable further elaborated in an email to the Daily Dot, stating that nicotine pouches should only be used as an aid to quit smoking and not as a gateway for high school students to experiment with nicotine. She reiterated that using nicotine pouches in the same spot daily can lead to gum recession and loss.
This isn’t the first time Dr. Sable has used her platform to educate the public about dental health. Last year, she issued a public service announcement on TikTok advising against using blue mouthwash immediately after whitening teeth, as it can tint the teeth light blue due to the open tooth pores.
The conversation around Zyn and its potential dental health risks underscores the importance of being informed about the products we use and their long-term effects. As more people turn to nicotine pouches as an alternative to smoking, it’s crucial to consider the potential consequences on oral health and to seek professional advice when needed.
