A dentist has warned that a common toothpaste ingredient could be playing havoc with people’s oral health. Dr Ferakh Hamid has revealed it may lead to unwanted side effects like mouth ulcers and allergic reactions.
Dr Hamid, from Aesthetique Dental Care, shed light on the issue: “SLS (Sodium lauryl sulfate) is a common ingredient in toothpaste, but it can cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive mouths. Research has shown a link between SLS and more frequent mouth ulcers. Using SLS-free toothpaste can help patients with oral sensitivities.
“Most toothpastes use SLS to create foam, which helps clean teeth. However, patients with taste issues or discomfort after brushing might benefit from SLS-free toothpaste. These alternatives are especially good for people with dry mouth or sensitivity.
“Choosing SLS-free toothpaste can help those with vulnerable mouths. Studies have shown that SLS-free toothpaste can lead to four times fewer soft tissue lesions after 30 minutes compared to toothpaste with SLS.
“Toothpaste doesn’t need to foam to be effective and SLS-free toothpaste can clean just as well as traditional toothpaste. It’s also helpful to know the difference between SLS and its milder version, sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). While SLES is less irritating, many SLS-free products avoid both ingredients. This is important for dentists when advising on oral care.
“Given the potential for allergic reactions and irritation, dental professionals should guide patients in choosing toothpaste that suits their needs. With many SLS-free and allergen-free options available, patients can maintain oral health without adverse reactions.”
Toothpaste flavours
Dr Hamid stated: “Allergic reactions to toothpaste often come from common flavourings like peppermint, spearmint, and cinnamon. These natural and synthetic chemicals are responsible for most allergic responses, making it challenging for those allergic to find a suitable toothpaste.
“Other ingredients, like propylene glycol, essential oils and even gluten, can trigger contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Patients should carefully read labels and avoid specific allergens when choosing toothpaste.”
“For individuals highly sensitive to toothpaste ingredients, including flavourings and SLS, exploring over-the-counter natural toothpaste options may help. However, even some natural toothpaste formulations contain flavourings that can still trigger reactions.”