DT News - Nordic - White snus: Study to examine inflammation caused by popular nicotine product

Dental Tribune International

Fri. 25 April 2025

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GOTHENBURG, Sweden: A growing incidence of painful, slow-healing inflammation in the mouths of white snus users in Sweden has prompted calls from health professionals and academics for further research. A novel oral product providing fast delivery of nicotine derived from tobacco leaves, white snus is growing in popularity among younger Swedes in particular. According to one of the researchers involved in a newly initiated study at the University of Gothenburg, the oral lesions developed by white snus users are distinct from those caused by traditional brown snus and are a reason for concern.

A press release from the university explained that the new research is a direct result of cases referred to its oral care facilities by dentists. Brown snus has been consumed by generations of Swedes, and the tobacco product is known to cause wrinkles and a white thickening of the mucosa. The inflammation seen in white snus users is notably distinct and has been observed to result in red, painful lesions that develop into ulcers in some patients. The lesions appear to heal more slowly than those caused by brown snus. Whereas those associated with the traditional variant can heal within weeks after cessation of use, lesions resulting from the use of white snus can take up to 12 months to heal.

Dr Gita Gale, a dentist and senior lecturer in oral medicine at the university, is leading the study. She commented in the press release: “We’re more concerned about these lesions. They’re completely different, with redness and thinning of the mucous membrane. Tissue samples have revealed severe inflammation, and we recommend that users stop using snus immediately if they develop problems or notice changes.”

Among other ingredients, such as flavouring and sweetening agents, white snus contains sodium carbonate. This allows nicotine to rapidly penetrate the mucosa and enter the bloodstream, providing a powerful hit.

The study aims to address the existing gap in knowledge surrounding the effects of usage of white snus on oral health. The certified tobacco-free product has been sold in Sweden for over ten years, and the SOM Institute at the University of Gothenburg estimates that 25% of Swedes aged 16–29 years are regular users. At 27%, the proportion of female regular users in this age group is even greater.

Dr Gale emphasised that the high level of use among young people is a reason for concern, particularly given how little is known about the long-term effects of white snus. Over the next five years, the study will utilise a network of local hospital dental clinics to investigate changes in the mucosa resulting from white snus use, including the severity of inflammation and changes in oral tissue.

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