As humans, we all have experienced mouth sores at least once in our lifetime. They can be painful, uncomfortable, and downright annoying. However, what if I told you that your toothpaste could be the culprit behind these sores? Yes, you heard it right. Your toothpaste can actually cause mouth sores. 

In this blog, we will discuss why your toothpaste might be giving you mouth sores and what you can do to prevent them.

Firstly, let’s talk about what mouth sores actually are. Mouth sores, also known as canker sores, are small ulcers that develop in the mouth. They can appear on the tongue, lips, gums, or even the roof of the mouth. They can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as stress, injury to the mouth, hormonal changes, or certain medical conditions.

Now, coming back to toothpaste. Toothpaste is a product that we use every day, sometimes even twice a day. We put it in our mouths, swish it around, and spit it out. But what if your toothpaste contains certain ingredients that are irritating your mouth and causing those painful sores? This is more common than you might think.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) 

One of the most common culprits behind toothpaste-induced mouth sores is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). SLS is a detergent that is added to toothpaste to make it foam and create that satisfying lather. 

However, SLS can be harsh on the delicate tissues inside your mouth, causing irritation and inflammation that can lead to canker sores. SLS is also a known skin irritant and has been linked to other health issues, such as skin allergies and eczema.

Propylene Glycol

Another ingredient that can cause mouth sores is propylene glycol. Propylene glycol is a synthetic liquid that is added to toothpaste to help keep it moist and prevent it from drying out. 

However, propylene glycol can also be irritating to the mouth, causing redness, swelling, and even sores. Propylene glycol is also commonly found in other personal care products, such as shampoo and body wash.

Flavorings and other additives can also be responsible for toothpaste-induced mouth sores. Some people may be allergic or sensitive to certain flavorings or other additives, such as menthol or cinnamon, which can cause an allergic reaction in the mouth. Additionally, preservatives such as parabens may also cause mouth sores in some people.

So, what can you do to prevent toothpaste-induced mouth sores? Firstly, you can switch to a toothpaste that does not contain SLS or propylene glycol. There are many natural and organic toothpaste options available that are free of these harsh ingredients. 

Look for toothpaste that contains natural ingredients, such as tea tree oil or aloe vera, which can help soothe and heal any mouth sores you may already have.

You can also try using a toothpaste that is specifically formulated for sensitive teeth and gums. These toothpastes are usually free of harsh detergents and other irritants and can help prevent mouth sores from occurring. Additionally, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing gently can also help prevent mouth sores by reducing the risk of injury or irritation to the mouth.

If you do develop a mouth sore, there are a few things you can do to help it heal faster. Firstly, try to avoid eating or drinking anything that is hot, spicy, or acidic, as these can further irritate the sore. Instead, opt for cool, soft foods and drinks that are easy on the mouth.

You can also try rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution or using an over-the-counter mouthwash that contains hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine. These can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

At the end of the day, we value our customers and want you to have a healthy mouth. If you’re experiencing recurrent mouth sores or think your toothpaste might be causing them, make sure to speak with your dentist or doctor as soon as possible. They can help you find a solution that works for you!

Should You Use Toothpaste That Doesn’t Contain Any of These Ingredients?

Because of the stringent health rules that must be adhered to before a popular toothpaste can be put on the shelves of a store in Canada, the vast majority of the toothpastes that can be found there are completely risk-free. 

Nevertheless, there are many distinct types of toothpaste, and some of these toothpastes might have certain components in them that could be problematic. 

The following is a list of the most common compounds included in toothpaste, each of which has the potential to cause an adverse reaction in some individuals under specific circumstances.

For instance, it has been demonstrated that the chemical sodium lauryl sulfate found in foaming agents might irritate the skin of some individuals who are more sensitive to the properties of this material. The good news is that there are substitute substances that can carry out the same job without causing the same adverse reaction. 

If you notice that brushing your teeth causes you difficulty, particularly in the form of gum inflammation, you should discuss the issue with your dentist as soon as possible. They ought to be able to ascertain whether or not it is because of sensitivity to sodium lauryl sulfate, or whether or not it is due to some other underlying cause.

In addition, as a result of amateur movies that have been circulating on the internet and other media platforms, charcoal has seen a recent surge in popularity as a tooth whitening procedure that can be performed at home. 

However, using charcoal toothpastes excessively or on a daily basis might lead to unfavorable effects such as an earlier loss of tooth enamel if the product is not used in moderation. This vital information is only seldom presented in these online videos, which causes some viewers to unwittingly cause harm to their teeth while attempting to lighten their color.

Even artificial teeth, as well as the material used in dental treatments such as bonding or fillings, have a chance of becoming stained and discolored if they come into contact with charcoal. 

Even while there are certain home remedies that have the potential to improve oral health, it is imperative that you first examine the specifics of these treatments with a qualified dental expert that you can put your trust in before attempting anything on your own.

Taking Better Care of Your Mouth with Correct Oral Hygiene Practices at Home

Choosing the correct toothpaste involves more than just keeping your teeth and breath clean. It is the foundation of an effective at-home oral care routine that promotes robust and healthy teeth, which in turn increases the efficacy of your dentist’s treatments. 

This includes using proper brushing technique, toothpaste of high quality, flossing regularly, and antibacterial mouth rinses. The combination of these measures reduces bacterial growth and prevents future dental health issues from occurring. Better dental hygiene, periodontal health, and overall dental health can have a significant impact on your overall health.

If you are unsure whether your toothpaste is the best option for your specific requirements, you should have an open discussion with your dentist. Contact 

Seaglass Dental Care now to schedule your next dental appointment and receive expert guidance on the best dental health products for your mouth. 

We’ll gladly address any questions you may have and point you in the direction of the best toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, mouthwashes, and more!