Snuff

Definition: Finely ground tobacco that comes in two forms:

• Wet or moist snuff. It is used by taking a "pinch" and putting it between the cheek or the lower lip and the gum, where it sits until the nicotine in the tobacco is absorbed through the inside of the mouth. Moist snuff can also be purchased in portioned teabag-like sachets that can be put directly in the mouth as well.

• Dry snuff is sold as a powder that can be inhaled directly into the nose where the nicotine contained within can quickly move into the bloodstream.

Both forms of snuff put users at risk for nicotine addiction and a multitude of oral problems, including leukoplakia, receding gums, tooth loss and oral cancer.

Also Known As: smokeless tobacco