Toothpaste Allergy
Toothpaste is the most used product for oral hygiene. However, most people don't know that toothpaste can cause allergies. Although you should brush your teeth at least twice a day for a healthy mouth, there are rare cases of people who experience discomfort around their mouth after using toothpaste.Toothpaste Allergy Symptoms
Often toothpaste allergy is misdiagnosed or not reported. Knowing the signs and symptoms of toothpaste allergy can help you to properly identify whether you are allergic to your toothpaste.The symptoms below can occur immediately or hours after brushing.
Contact Dermatitis
Toothpaste allergy may cause rashes which start in the corners of the mouth and can spread downwards when not treated. They can also occur around the lower lip.Perioral Dermatitis
Perioral dermatitis is an itchy, red rash that peels and can look like small acne. It is caused by an allergy to fluoride. The rash usually starts around the lips and can spread to other parts of the face such as the cheeks, chin and nose.Canker Sores
These mouth ulcers are painful open sores. They are sensitive to spicy foods and drinks such as orange juice, for example.They can occur along with gum inflammation after brushing.
Cheilitis
This is one of the major symptoms of toothpaste allergy. It involves irritation, dryness and cracking of the mouth. In worst cases it can even lead to swelling and pus oozing from mouth corners. Although Cheilitis is a common symptoms of yeast infection, it can occur from toothpaste allergy too.Upset Stomach
When you brush, you can ingest small amounts of toothpaste. This can result in gastrointestinal problems and a sick feeling if you are allergic to toothpaste.Other Toothpaste Allergy Symptoms
- Respiratory problems
- Hives
- Itchiness
- Red, watery eyes
- Anaphylactic shock
- Gum inflammation
Allergy To Fluoride & Other Toothpaste Ingredients
Allergic reactions to toothpaste are often caused by one of the substances within toothpaste. According to Oral B, discomfort, redness, swelling and painful lesions can be symptoms of the spearmint or peppermint oils in toothpaste.Most of the time, though, fluoride is the substances in toothpaste which causes allergic reactions. Common symptoms fluoride causes are canker sores and perioral dermatitis.
Other toothpaste ingredients that may cause toothpaste allergy include:
- Flavouring - this includes cinnamon, mint, spearmint or peppermint
- Additives - oils, parabens and pappain
- Cocamidopropyl betaine
- Propylene Glycol
- Sodium Benzoate
Allergy To Other Products
If you're allergic to toothpaste then you could be allergic to other products with similar ingredients. Allergies to toothpaste flavourings, for example, could also mean oral rinses and chewing gum could cause you redness, swelling and other allergic reactions.This is why it's important to identify the chemicals in toothpaste which cause your allergies. That way you will know what other products to avoid.
Preventing Toothpaste Allergy
It is important to not ignore the symptoms of toothpaste allergy, especially if you have noticed them before. If you see the symptoms, it's a good idea to talk to a dentist to have the problem diagnosed properly.There are also ways to prevent toothpaste allergy yourself:
- Wash your mouth and face after brushing. Pay attention to any toothpaste residue on the corners of your mouth.
- Buy toothpaste with the fewest ingredients. It is also good to try different toothpastes to see which brand causes the least allergic reactions.
- Avoid using toothpastes with fluoride. Also make sure you don't drink or rinse your mouth with fluoridated water.
- Use less toothpaste. This can decrease your exposure to allergenic ingredients and also decrease toothpaste ingestion.
- Toothpastes with natural ingredients can still be allergenic. They may have rare mixes of herbs which can also cause allergic reactions.
Irritation & Sensitive Mouth
Symptoms similar to toothpaste allergy can also be caused by mouth sensitivity. If you change your toothpaste several times and still notice gum inflammation and other symptoms, then it could be caused by irritation instead of allergy.Dentists may then recommend using certain brands of toothpastes with less flavouring oils. There are also products made especially for people with sensitive teeth and gums such as Sensodyne or Oral-B Sensitive Advantage.
It can also help to not brush your teeth too hard, as well as changing your toothbrush often (at least once a month). Make sure the toothbrush you buy has bristles in the soft to medium range, as these cause less irritation to your gums.