A tiny canker sore in your mouth can be a huge annoyance, right? Especially for those who are frustrated by frequent canker sores. Many might think it’s due to stress or lack of rest, but have you ever wondered if the cause is closer than you think, like the toothpaste you use every day? Berry Dent is here to clear up whether a toothpaste allergy is real and how it relates to the formation of canker sores.
Is Toothpaste the Cause of Canker Sores?
To the question “Does toothpaste really cause canker sores?” the answer is “it’s highly possible,” especially for people with sensitive and delicate oral mucous membranes. But it’s important to understand that not every tube of toothpaste is the culprit. Instead, it’s certain “ingredients” hidden inside that can trigger irritation and lead to canker sores.
Meet SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate): The Number One Suspect
If we’re looking for a cause of toothpaste allergy symptoms, we must focus on a chemical called SLS, which is found in most toothpastes on the market.
- What is SLS and why is it in toothpaste?
SLS is a “foaming agent.” Its main job is to create a rich lather while we brush, which gives a “clean” feeling and helps the toothpaste spread throughout the mouth more easily. For this reason, most companies like to add SLS to various cleaning products, not just toothpaste, but also soaps and shampoos.
- How does SLS cause irritation and canker sores?
Several studies indicate that SLS has strong detergent properties that can strip away the protective mucin layer that coats our oral lining. When this natural protective barrier is compromised, the delicate tissue underneath is exposed and becomes more vulnerable to irritation from acidic foods or friction. The result is those recurring, painful canker sores.
Checklist: Is This a Toothpaste Allergy?
Observe yourself to see if you have these symptoms after brushing or after switching to a new tube of toothpaste:
- Frequent canker sores or recurring mouth ulcers in the same spots.
- A burning or irritated sensation in your mouth after brushing.
- Unusually dry mouth or peeling at the corners of your mouth.
- Redness or inflammation of the skin around your lips.
If you have these symptoms, it’s highly likely that you may be sensitive to SLS or other ingredients in your toothpaste.
How to Choose Toothpaste for People with Frequent Canker Sores
Changing your toothpaste might be the easiest and most direct solution. Here’s what to look for:
- Look for “SLS-Free” or “No Foaming Agent”: The easiest way is to check the label on the box. Look for toothpaste that clearly states it is “SLS-Free,” designed specifically for people with sensitivities.
- Choose a Gentle Formula or Herbal Toothpaste: Gentle formulas or herbal toothpastes often avoid harsh chemicals and use natural ingredients that help soothe the oral lining instead.
Other Factors That Can Also Cause Canker Sores
Of course, a toothpaste allergy isn’t the only cause of canker sores. Other factors such as stress, lack of sleep, deficiencies in certain vitamins (like B12, zinc, iron), hormonal changes, or even accidentally biting your cheek can also be causes.
Choosing a gentle oral care product that understands the problem is therefore crucial. For those looking for a toothpaste that provides comprehensive oral care while remaining gentle, we recommend Berry Dent hybrid herbal toothpaste. It combines the perfect balance of nature and science. Developed through over 10 years of research, it has a unique formula of natural herbal extracts and 5 types of berries, along with 1500 ppm fluoride for maximum cavity protection. This makes Berry Dent an excellent choice for those who want the value of nature and innovation that provides the most effective oral care without causing irritation