Flavorings in toothpaste, such as mint, are the most likely to be responsible for an allergic reaction, though other ingredients may contribute as well.
This article will discuss the symptoms and causes of toothpaste allergies, and how to find the right toothpaste for you.
Toothpaste Allergy Symptoms
Symptoms of an allergy to toothpaste include:
Swollen gumsSores in the mouthBurning or itching sensation around the mouthTongue irritationItching and peeling of the lips and skin around the mouth
Causes of Toothpaste Allergic Reactions
There are two types of contact dermatitis—irritant and allergic. This difference is often difficult to determine, and it is not usually an important distinction. Most reactions from toothpaste are allergic contact dermatitis.
Both natural and synthetic (manmade) chemicals used to add peppermint, spearmint, and cinnamon flavoring are responsible for the majority of allergic reactions to toothpaste. Since most toothpastes contain these flavorings, it can be challenging to find one that does not cause a reaction in people who are allergic.
Other ingredients in toothpastes that may cause contact dermatitis include:
Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB), a lathering or foaming agent Propylene glycol, a preservative Essential oils, such as tea tree oil (which helps control bacteria in the mouth) Parabens, a preservative
Some toothpastes also use gluten as a thickener. This can cause symptoms in people who must avoid gluten.
Very rarely, the fluoride in toothpaste may cause an allergic reaction. There have only been two published case reports of this type of allergy, and one of them noted that a flavoring agent could also be responsible. So fluoride allergy is extremely unusual.
Allergens in Other Oral Care Products
Contact dermatitis of the mouth can also be caused by other oral and dental care products, including mouthwashes, chewing gums, and lipsticks or lip balms.
Metals used in dentistry that can cause contact dermatitis in the mouth include mercury, chromium, nickel, gold, cobalt, beryllium, and palladium.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of toothpaste allergy is made with a patch test. With this, small amounts of allergens are placed on the skin of your back and covered with an adhesive sheet. The sheet stays on for approximately 48 hours. The results of the test are interpreted at 48 hours after placement, and again at 72 or 96 hours after placement.
The TRUE test is the only FDA-approved patch test for contact dermatitis in the United States, although some allergists and dermatologists use more extensive patch test panels with chemicals purchased from Canada or Europe.
A positive test is confirmed when there is itching, redness, mild swelling, and blistering at the site of the particular chemical.
Treatments for Toothpaste Allergy
The best way to treat toothpaste allergy is to avoid the chemical that is resulting in the allergy. Many people with an allergy to artificially flavored toothpastes can tolerate naturally flavored versions. Others may need to use toothpastes in non-traditional flavors, such as mango or berry.
For the treatment of immediate symptoms, a doctor may suggest the use of a low-potency topical steroid (such as over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1% cream) applied to the affected skin on the face for a short period of time.
Sores in the mouth, swollen gums, and tongue irritation may need to be treated with systemic corticosteroids (pills or shots) or topical steroid mouthwashes that can be made by a compounding pharmacy.
Summary
An allergy to toothpaste causes contact dermatitis. Symptoms include sore gums, a burning tongue, cracked lips and redness around the mouth. Most toothpaste allergies are caused by ingredients used to add flavoring. For people who are allergic to certain toothpastes, the only way to avoid symptoms is by finding a toothpaste that doesn’t contain the offending ingredients.
A Word From Verywell
If you think you are allergic to your toothpaste, consider trying one in a different flavor or a natural version. If your symptoms persist, talk to a dentist or dermatologist, who can guide you on next steps, whether that means being tested for allergens in toothpaste or finding an alternative product to keep your teeth clean.
