I've never smoked cigarettes, but decided to try Nicorette gum as an alternative to a second cup of coffee (if I drink after 12:00, I wont go to sleep on time).
I've been using it for 8+ years now and have found a sustainable dosage that doesn't give me withdrawal/depenency. I've never had an issue with tolerance.
I buy a big box of 4mg gum and go through around half to one piece a day. I discovered consuming 2+ pieces (+8mg) led to withdrawal symptoms (empathetic lightbulb moment for me for smokers who want to quit!)
Regarding dependency, I don't take any when Im traveling/on vacation, and have never felt the need to use it then.
Any desire comes from wanting to continue the alertness once the caffeine starts to wear off.