Hi Hoss.............Hold on there---don't think about or stress about cancer until you hear from the doctor those three little words: You Have Cancer, otherwise you're gonna drive yourself crazy and probably for no just cause! You're doing all the right things; seeing your dentist, asking questions and doing some research--all good. The hard part to all of this is the nicotine addiction that you have developed over the years. Seems to me like you are heading in the right direction to rid yourself of the addiction though, and that is the good news in all of this! Any addiction is a tough thing to kick and I admire you for doing so at a relatively young age! Have you thought about the nicotine patch or the anti depressant Zoloft to help control the urges? Just a thought. Anyway, congratulations on quitting the dipping and I wish you much more continued success. Keep us posted on your progress, and good luck! SIncerely, Donna