Robbie,

I am a dentist and in the 35 years that I have been practicing, I have only found one case of oral cancer from dipping. In this case it was located exactly where the tobacco was placed and the area had a very "corrugated" look.

More than likely, your problem is related to the fact that you had not had any regular dental care in 10 years. I would be unlikely that the problem on the other side of your mouth is related to placing tobacco on the opposite side.

If getting your teeth cleaned and improving your homecare, doesn't clear up the discomfort in your gums, then your dentist should be doing something to find out why you are still having a problem. You didn't mention anything about either dentist doing probing to determine if you have pockets in your gums. Was this done?

I would cetainly recommend getting to the cause of your discomfort as a healthy mouth should not hurt. And, I hope you are no longer dipping.

Hope I have been of some help.

Jerry

Jerry

Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.

"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"