Nicotine use still remains a significant challenge to global public health. The adverse effects of smoking are extensively documented, however novel nicotine product such as electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco and nicotine pouches still requires further research. This questionnaire study examines the prevalence and determinants of traditional and alternative nicotine product use among dental students, along with their knowledge of smoking-related oral health risks. A total of 92 participated in the study. Regular nicotine use was reported by 24.7% of respondents, with e-cigarettes being the most common product (12.9%). Occasional use was higher at 46.4%, driven mainly by social interactions (25.8%) and stress (25.8%). The study found a notable association between students’ nicotine use and the habits of their social circles, highlighting the influence of environmental factors. Knowledge of smoking’s impact on oral health was high (96.7%), though fewer students were aware of the risks associated with alternative products such as e-cigarettes (87.0%). These findings suggest that targeted education within the dental curriculum plays an important role and potentially influence nicotine use behaviors. The study emphasizes the need for earlier integration of comprehensive tobacco education, particularly novel nicotine products.

Key words: cigarette smoking, alternative nicotine products, electronic cigarettes.