When you search for toothpaste, you typically look for something that’ll give you minty-fresh breath and shiny white teeth. But what happens when your toothpaste gives you more than you’ve bargained for—and not in a good way?

Finding the right toothpaste for your smile can be difficult. Most people believe all kinds of toothpaste on the market are more or less similar, and they solve general dental issues equally well. That’s why people often stick to one brand of toothpaste they’re comfortable with. 

While this is a reasonable approach, there are some cases where your oral health depends on changing toothpaste. Keep an eye out for the following signals:

Toothpaste Allergy

Although rare, about 0.1 to 0.3 per cent of the population display contact allergy to toothpaste. Many allergies result in runny noses or hives, but the most common toothpaste allergy symptom is cheilitis, inflammation on the lips. Cheilitis can be displayed as a rash or dry, cracked lips. 

When it comes to toothpaste allergies, symptoms in the mouth are rare. You should visit a dentist or doctor immediately if you experience any itching or swelling in your mouth. It could be caused by a food allergy or a different dental problem. 

If you have toothpaste allergy, switching to another brand or type of toothpaste can make your allergy symptoms go away. 

Tooth Sensitivity

Abrasive toothpaste such as charcoal toothpaste can wear away the enamel over time which then leads to tooth sensitivity. When your enamel is damaged, it exposes the delicate root and nerve endings inside your teeth. Soon, you may feel a stinging, painful sensation whenever you consume hot or cold food or drinks. If you’re using an abrasive toothpaste, make sure you only do so once a week or less, and use a different toothpaste the rest of the time. If you have damaged enamel, switching to a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help alleviate the condition. 

Swollen Or Bleeding Gums

Gum irritation, which is caused by the buildup of bacteria at the gum line or brushing too vigorously, can be fixed by adjusting your oral care routine or buying specialized toothpaste to reduce gum bleeding. Sometimes, tender or bleeding gums can also be due to an allergic reaction to your toothpaste, so switching toothpaste would be advisable. 

Brushing should be effective and painless. As long as you’re seeing the results you want, it’s alright to stick with the toothpaste you know and love. If you’re using fluoridated toothpaste, brushing your teeth twice daily will reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. 

If your toothpaste isn’t the right fit for you, don’t hesitate to ask our friendly team at Dental Image Therapy Centres for recommendations about which toothpaste you could try next. We can also help you reduce tooth sensitivity and treat bleeding gums. Schedule a visit at one of our dental clinics today: St. Vital Centre or Garden City Shopping Centre.