Have you suddenly had a rash develop around your mouth, have chapped lips, or even an itchy or burning sensation? If so, there’s a chance that you may be allergic to toothpaste. If you’re thinking “allergic to toothpaste? No, way!”
Even though it might seem a little odd, it is a possible situation.
Here, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know and delve deeper into the details. From diagnosing a toothpaste allergy to what ingredients you should avoid, and a list of hypoallergenic toothpastes, we’ll cover it all.
What are some symptoms of a toothpaste allergy?
If you’re allergic to your toothpaste, the common symptoms are:
- A rash forming around the mouth
- Chapped lips
- An itchy or burning sensation
- Severely cracked, dry lips – also known as cheilitis
- Contact stomatitis
- Discolouration of teeth
- Contact leukoderma
How can you diagnose a toothpaste allergy?
Diagnosis is usually done through a patch test which involves placing various chemicals on the back for approximately 48 hours. It’s not the same as an allergy test, and this is typically done with a paper tape system. The results of the test are interpreted about 2 days after placement, and again at 3 days, and 4 days after placement.
What are some potential allergens in toothpaste?
Toothpastes contain a wide range of ingredients from flavourings to preservatives, abrasives, detergents, binding agents, fluoride salts and more. Out of all the ingredients however, flavourings are usually the main cause of allergic reactions as there’s a considerable overlap with foods.
What are some other ingredients to take note of?
While you may not necessarily be allergic to these ingredients, it’s best to avoid toothpaste that contain these ingredients as it may cause harm to your overall health:
- Fluoride
- Artificial sweeteners
- Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
- Artificial colors
- Carrageenan
- Propylene glycol
- Triclosan
Some toothpastes also contain plastic microbeads which are something worth looking out for as well.
How can you treat a toothpaste allergy?
The best way to treat a toothpaste allergy is to avoid toothpastes with the ingredient that you’re allergic to. For the treatment of immediate symptoms, doctors may suggest the use of a low-potency topical steroid to apply to the affected skin. Long-term use of these topical steroids should be avoided as they can be harmful.
For sores in the mouth, tongue irritation and more, these can be treated with pills, injections or topical steroid mouthwashes.
To avoid getting a toothpaste allergy in the first place, opt for a hypoallergenic toothpaste.
Read on to find out more!
What makes toothpaste hypoallergenic?
Toothpastes are considered hypoallergenic if they have the features listed below:
- Mint-free
- SLS-free
- Paraben-free
- Salicylate-free
- Plastic-free
- Artificial sweetener-free
- Alcohol-free
It’s a bonus if they’re also developed by a practicing Doctor of Dental Surgery and are specifically formulated for those with sensitive teeth and gums.
What are some great hypoallergenic toothpastes?
Below are some great toothpastes that are free of harmful products, and great for both your health and your teeth.
OUR TOP PICK
Auromere Ayurvedic Herbal Toothpaste
These exceptional award-winning natural toothpastes are infused with organic neem, licorice and peelu. You won’t find any fluoride, gluten, artificial sweeteners, dyes or harsh chemicals in their whole range, which include fresh mint, mint-free, foam and mint-free, classic licorice and cardamom fennel. These toothpastes are used and highly recommended by our whole team.
Hello Nakedpaste
This unique toothpaste is crafted with only a handful of ingredients from coconut oil to baking soda and activated charcoal. It whitens naturally, removes plaque and contains no artificial sweeteners, artificial flavors, fluoride, dye, sulfates, and parabens.
Tom’s of Maine
This fantastic Tom’s of Maine toothpaste is made from naturally derived ingredients and uses a combination of arginine and calcium carbonate for sensitive tooth nerves. There’s no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives and this toothpaste, and it’s also never tested on animals.
Hello Oral Care
This thoughtfully formulated toothpaste is crafted with high-quality ingredients such as xylitol, soothing aloe vera and a silica blend. Even the box is made from 100% recycled paperboard! This toothpaste is free from dyes, sulfates, artificial sweeteners and flavors, microbeads, triclosan and gluten.
Burt’s Bees
This refreshing toothpaste will leave you feeling clean and fresh. It’s made without SLS, triclosan, parabens, artificial flavors and sweeteners, preservatives, and plastic microbeads.
FAQ’s – You Ask, We Answer
Should I pick a gel or paste toothpaste?
It honestly doesn’t matter, it’s entirely up to you and what you prefer.
How do I know if hypoallergenic toothpaste is effective?
It should be something that’s accepted by an accredited dental association, and you’ll usually find this seal on the package.
Should you use a toothbrush cover?
You don’t really need to have a toothbrush cover as the bacteria that accumulates on your toothbrush isn’t all that bad. There’s no indication that it negatively affects your oral or general health.
How do I take care of my toothbrush?
Avoid sharing your toothbrush with anyone as it can put you at risk for infection. After each use, rinse your toothbrush with water to remove all food debris, and store your toothbrush uncovered and allow it to air dry. Finally, replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
What if I have braces?
If you have braces, you should be extra diligent with brushing as metal braces can make it easy for food to get stuck on or between the teeth. Food trapped can form plaque which increases the risk of tooth decay, hence, it’s important to keep your teeth clean when you have braces. Using hypoallergenic toothpaste is like using regular toothpaste even if you wear braces, so no need to worry there.
We hope that this article gives you a comprehensive overview of both hypoallergenic toothpastes and toothpaste allergies, and you’ll be able to take the necessary precautions and find the best toothpaste for your needs.
