Virtually any product that you use has the potential to cause an allergic reaction. Although uncommon, a toothpaste allergy can occur as well.
What is a Toothpaste Allergy?
The most common toothpaste allergy is known as cheilitis which can cause chapped lips, rash around the mouth, or an itchy or burning sensation.
Toothpaste Allergy Ingredients and Causes
Flavourings often used in toothpaste, such as oil of peppermint, can cause an allergic reaction, but such reactions are usually mild and will resolve if you switch to a different flavour or brand of toothpaste.
However, toothpaste allergies are quite rare. The low degree of sensitization in most toothpaste ingredients contributes to the rarity of toothpaste allergies. The ingredients in toothpaste have changed over time and continue to change as companies refine their formulas to make them safer and more effective.
Toothpaste Allergy Symptoms
A toothpaste allergy can reveal itself across a number of symptoms. Toothpaste allergy symptoms to watch out for include:
Itchy or burning sensation
A rash around the mouth
Chapped lips
Severely cracked dry lips
If you experience toothpaste allergy symptoms, such as swelling, redness, dryness, or infection in your mouth, see your dentist immediately to rule out gum disease and to discuss your choice of toothpaste. You may find that you simply have sensitive teeth and gums rather than a full-blown toothpaste allergy.
Toothpaste Allergy Relief
If you experience any allergy to toothpaste symptoms, a simple swap of the brand or flavour of toothpaste can help.
However, if toothpaste allergy symptoms persist see your healthcare professional right away for proper diagnosis or treatment.
If you’ve identified the toothpaste ingredient that’s causing your allergy, try brushing with a toothpaste that’s formulated without that specific ingredient. If your toothpaste allergy is a result of sensitivity, consider using a sensitivity toothpaste instead.
When it comes to toothpaste allergies, a simple solution can be to switch to a mild flavoured toothpaste and soft-bristle toothbrush or brush head.
Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21470-angular-cheilitis