Yes, toothpaste can potentially cause canker sores in some individuals. Certain ingredients in toothpaste, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), can contribute to the development of canker sores.

SLS is a surfactant commonly found in toothpaste that can irritate the delicate tissues inside our mouths, leading to the formation of canker sores. Additionally, abrasive substances in toothpaste can also contribute to tissue irritation and ulcer formation, further exacerbating the risk of developing canker sores.

If you experience recurrent canker sores and suspect your toothpaste may be the cause, consider switching ton SLS free toothpaste to see if it helps alleviate the issue.

In this article, I'll explain everything you need to know about canker sores and whether or not your toothpaste might be causing them.

First, what are canker sores?

Often referred to as aphthous ulcers, canker sores are painful lesions that only develop on the soft tissues inside of your mouth. They occur most frequently on the:

• gums

• tongue

• cheeks

• or throat.

Typically, canker sores are rounded, white sores raised above the soft tissue. They can vary in size and may cause discomfort or pain, particularly when eating, drinking, or speaking.

While the exact cause of canker sores is not fully understood, research suggests that braces and sharp teeth along with potential irritants like sodium lauryl sulfate contribute to their development.

Canker sores are not contagious but can recur intermittently in some individuals.

Signs of a Canker Sore

Canker sores are often mistaken for cold sores, but there are clear differences. Canker sores are not contagious and always appear inside the mouth, while cold sores are found on the outside, such as around the lips or nostrils.

Not to be confused with cold sores, research suggests signs of a canker sore include:

1. Pain or discomfort: Canker sores often cause pain or a burning sensation, especially when eating, drinking, or speaking.

2. Lesions: Canker sores begin appearing as a raised, rounded white sore on the soft tissues in your mouth. They may vary in size, from small pinpoint lesions to larger sores.

3. Redness and inflammation: The area surrounding the canker sore may be red and inflamed.

4. Difficulty eating or drinking: Due to the pain or discomfort, individuals with canker sores may experience difficulty chewing or swallowing.

5. Tingling or burning sensation: Some people may notice a tingling or burning sensation in the area before the sore develops.

Further, while these sores can be painful, most people feel fine overall, and they’re unlikely to spread by actions like sharing food or kissing. Canker sores can also recur, sometimes in the same spot or different areas of the mouth.

Can certain toothpaste cause canker sores?

Yes, certain toothpaste ingredients, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), have been associated with an increased risk of developing canker sores for some poeple.

SLS is a foaming agent found in many toothpaste formulations, and its abrasive properties can potentially irritate the delicate tissues inside the mouth. This can  lead to discomfort and the formation of canker sores. Additionally, other ingredients like artificial flavors, preservatives, or dyes may also trigger allergic reactions or irritation in some people, contributing to the development of canker sores.

If you experience recurrent canker sores, switching to a toothpaste without SLS - this may help alleviate your discomfort or symptoms and reduce the likelihood of future outbreaks.

Causes of Mouth Sores from Toothpaste

Mouth sores from toothpaste can arise due to various factors and ingredients to avoid in toothpaste.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), a common foaming agent found in many toothpaste formulations, is known to cause irritation and trigger mouth sores in susceptible individuals. This compound can strip away the natural protective layer of saliva on the gums, resulting in dryness and irritation.

As a result, SLS is one of the most commonly avoided ingredients in toothpaste.

Additionally, some people may experience allergic reactions to certain ingredients in toothpaste, such as flavorings or preservatives, leading to the development of mouth sores, swelling, or redness in the oral cavity.

Let's walk through some of the key causes of most canker sores from toothpaste.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

SLS is commonly included in toothpaste for its surfactant properties, which help create foam and lather. This foaming action helps you distribute toothpaste throughout your mouth during brushing which allows it to reach areas that might otherwise be difficult to access.

Additionally, SLS enhances the cleaning efficacy of toothpaste by effectively removing debris, food particles, and plaque from the teeth and gums. However, while SLS can be beneficial, it can have some bad side effects in toothpaste.

Thankfully, as technology has progressed, we now have newer, more gentle surfactants that can be found in SLS free toothpastes as compared to SLS containing toothpaste.

Propylene Glycol

Propylene glycol is a synthetic liquid commonly used in toothpaste to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.

While it serves this purpose, studies suggest that it can cause irritation in sensitive individuals, leading to symptoms like redness, swelling, and even sores in the mouth.

This ingredient is not limited to toothpaste; it’s also found in other personal care products such as shampoo and body wash, which means that people sensitive to propylene glycol may experience irritation in other areas of the body as well.

Abrasive Ingredients

Abrasive ingredients present in toothpaste, like charcoal, can exacerbate oral tissue irritation and potentially contribute to the formation of mouth sores and cause recurrent canker sores. These abrasives, while effective at removing surface stains and plaque, can be harsh on the delicate tissues of the mouth when used excessively or aggressively.

Who is prone to Canker Sores?

Canker sores can affect anyone, but they are particularly common among teenagers and young adults.

Studies suggest that factors such as stress and hormonal changes can increase the likelihood of developing these sores. Additionally, individuals with certain health conditions, like autoimmune disorders or vitamin deficiencies, may be more susceptible. 

A family history of canker sores can also heighten one's risk. Those with a weakened immune system or chronic health issues may experience them more frequently. 

Research suggests that dietary factors and sensitivity to specific ingredients in oral care products might play a role as well.

How can I help my child feel better with canker sores?

To help your child feel better with canker sores, encourage them to avoid acidic or spicy foods that can irritate the sores. 

Make sure they drink plenty of water to keep their mouth hydrated and rinse with a saltwater or baking soda solution to reduce discomfort. You can apply over-the-counter topical gels to numb the area and promote healing. 

Further, ensure they maintain good oral hygiene using a soft-bristled toothbrush and SLS-free toothpaste for kids to prevent further irritation. 

If the sores persist or cause significant pain, consult a healthcare professional for additional treatment options.

How to Heal Canker Sores

To heal frequent canker sores, there are several strategies you can employ. First, practicing good oral hygiene by gently brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using mild, SLS free toothpastes can help prevent further irritation.

Additionally, rinsing your mouth with salt water or an over-the-counter mouthwash specifically formulated for oral ulcer relief can help soothe the affected area and promote healing.

Over-the-counter topical treatments, such as gels or patches containing ingredients like benzocaine or hydrocortisone, can provide temporary pain relief and accelerate the healing process. Avoiding acidic or spicy foods and beverages that may exacerbate discomfort can also aid in healing.

In some cases, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) can help manage pain associated with canker sores. If the sores persist or worsen despite these measures, we recommend that you consult a dentist or healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.

The Best Toothpaste for Canker Sores

For those of us who frequently suffer from canker sores, finding the right oral care products can be the key to managing discomfort and promoting healing.

NOBS Toothpaste Tablets are the best toothpaste for canker sores for those prone to these painful ulcers. One of the key reasons is that they're an SLS-free toothpaste, meaning they're not formulated with any sodium lauryl sulfate.

Sodium lauryl sulfate is a common ingredient in many toothpastes that has been linked to the exacerbation of canker sores and mouth ulcers. By eliminating SLS and harsh abrasives from their formula, canker sore toothpastes like NOBS Toothpaste Tablets offer a gentler cleaning experience, reducing the potential irritation that can trigger or worsen canker sores.

NOBS Toothpaste Tablets have a simple, clean ingredient list, featuring only 13 ingredients. This minimalist approach minimizes your risk of allergic reactions which can be a concern with other toothpastes.

Additionally, NOBS stands out as the best choice for canker sore sufferers as it doesn't contain fluoride, or other ingredients known to cause mouth irritation. It includes nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) to remineralize teeth, ensuring comprehensive dental care without compromising effectiveness.

Summary: Canker Sores from Toothpaste

Canker sores from toothpaste may arise due to irritation or allergic reactions to specific ingredients, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or other abrasive substances commonly found in toothpaste formulations. SLS, in particular, is known to disrupt the protective layer of saliva in the mouth, leading to dryness and irritation of the oral tissues. Additionally, some individuals may be hypersensitive to certain additives or flavorings in toothpaste, resulting in inflammatory reactions that manifest as canker sores.

For these reasons, SLS free toothpaste is becoming increasingly popular.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my toothpaste give me canker sores?
Your toothpaste may be causing canker sores due to sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), an ingredient found in many toothpaste formulations. SLS can disrupt the protective layer of saliva in the mouth, leading to dryness and irritation of the oral tissues, which may trigger the development of canker sores in susceptible individuals. Additionally, abrasive substances in toothpaste, such as certain types of silica, may contribute to tissue irritation and ulcer formation. If you're experiencing recurrent canker sores from your toothpaste, consider switching to SLS free toothpaste.

What toothpaste is best for canker sores?
SLS free toothpastes with hydroxyapatite are the best for canker sores. These toothpastes are formulated with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), an ingredient in many toothpastes that is known to cause mouth irritation, ulcers, and dryness.

Can fluoride toothpaste cause sore mouth?
Yes, fluoride toothpaste can cause cancer sores if it contains sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), an ingredient found in many toothpaste formulations. SLS can disrupt the protective layer of saliva in the mouth, leading to dryness and irritation of the oral tissues, which may trigger the development of canker sores in susceptible individuals. Additionally, abrasive substances in toothpaste, such as certain types of silica, may contribute to tissue irritation and ulcer formation. If you're experiencing recurrent canker sores from your toothpaste, consider switching to SLS free toothpaste.

What toothpaste does not cause mouth ulcers?
SLS free toothpastes typically do not cause canker sores. These toothpastes are formulated with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), an ingredient in many toothpastes that is known to cause mouth irritation, ulcers, and dryness.

Is my toothpaste causing mouth sores?
Yes, your toothpaste may be causing mouth sores if it contains sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), an ingredient found in many toothpaste formulations. SLS can disrupt the protective layer of saliva in the mouth, leading to dryness and irritation of the oral tissues, which may trigger the development of canker sores in susceptible individuals. Additionally, abrasive substances in toothpaste, such as certain types of silica, may contribute to tissue irritation and ulcer formation. If you're experiencing recurrent canker sores from your toothpaste, consider switching to SLS free toothpaste.

What to do about Canker Sores?
Canker sores usually heal within 5-7 days. To support healing, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, brush your teeth gently, and avoid irritating foods. If sores persist or frequently recur, consult your dentist for potential treatments like a Triamcinolone ointment.

How are canker sores diagnosed?
Canker sores are typically diagnosed through a visual examination by a dentist or healthcare provider. They will look for characteristic signs, such as the appearance of small, shallow, white or yellowish sores with a red border inside the mouth. In some cases, if the sores are persistent or unusual, additional tests may be conducted to rule out other conditions or underlying health issues.

Just how strong is the link between canker sores and SLS?
The link between canker sores and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is notable, as SLS can irritate the mouth and contribute to the development of sores in sensitive individuals. Many people report improvement in symptoms after switching to SLS-free toothpaste. However, while SLS may exacerbate canker sores, other factors can also play a role in their occurrence.

Can mouthwash cure canker sores?
Mouthwash cannot cure canker sores, but it can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Antimicrobial or antiseptic mouthwashes may reduce irritation, prevent infection, and keep the area clean. However, canker sores typically heal on their own within 1-2 weeks.

Is toothpaste good for canker sores?
Toothpaste is generally not recommended for treating canker sores, as some ingredients, like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), may irritate the sores and worsen discomfort. However, using a gentle, SLS-free toothpaste can help prevent irritation while keeping your mouth clean. It's best to avoid direct contact with the sores when brushing to minimize pain.

Is brushing a canker sore good?
Brushing directly on a canker sore is not recommended, as it can cause further irritation and increase pain. However, maintaining good oral hygiene by carefully brushing around the sore can help prevent infection. It's best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle near the affected area.

What toothpaste helps with mouth ulcers?
NOBS Toothpaste Tablets is a great option for helping with mouth ulcers, as it contains gentle and natural ingredients that minimize irritation. Free of harsh chemicals like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), it soothes the mouth and promotes healing. Its fluoride-free, clean formula makes it ideal for those with sensitive mouths prone to ulcers.

How do you get canker sores?
Canker sores can develop due to various triggers, including stress, minor oral injuries (like biting the inside of your cheek), or irritation from certain foods. Studies suggest that factors such as nutritional deficiencies (e.g., low iron, vitamin B12, or folate), hormonal changes, or a weakened immune system can also contribute. Additionally, some individuals may experience canker sores from irritation caused by toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). Therefore, it is best to opt for SLS free toothpaste to avoid potential risks.

How do you speed up the healing of a canker sore?
To speed up canker sore healing, rinse with saltwater or a mild mouthwash to keep the area clean and reduce bacteria. Using topical gels with ingredients like benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide to relieve pain and promote healing. Avoid spicy or acidic foods, and consider switching to an SLS-free toothpaste to prevent further irritation.