I'm wondering can the dentist tell the difference between gingivitis of the gums, from someone who has been dipping?

Yes we can tell: Clinical signs of tobacco dipping and gingivitis are not the same. They affect different areas of the gums also.

Dentist is trained: to differentiate oral pathology. Gingivitis is a non-destructive periodontal disease also called gum disease with signs of the generalized inflammation. Whereas dipping is a localized oral lesion, caused by smokeless tobacco with an increase risk for stomach, oral and pancreatic cancers. "Don’t be Trippin’ — Stop Your Dippin’". Take care.

There's a difference: There is a big difference in the appearance of these two things. A dentist can distinguish. If you are dipping you should stop this destructive habit. See a dentist and have your mouth checked, and your teeth cleaned so there is no gingivitis.

Yes: Dipping cause a unique pattern on the gums where the tobacco is held. Most dippers have their favorite place to hold their dip. This change in the color and surface of the gingiva is radical and can lead to irreversible changes in skin including cancer. If stopped , often it will change back to normal and not be unhealthy.

Usually: Tissue damage is generally very different in these two situations. Also, we can compare the other areas not used for dipping with those used and note the differences. Important to know that the tissue which you destroy with the dipping also leads to bone destruction under it. Most often this bone is gone forever, and cannot be replaced. The cheek tissues are also affected. Be smart/healthy-Quit.