Contact stomatitis to toothpaste: importance of differential diagnosis

Abstract

Objective: the aim of the present study is to report four cases of toothpaste-related contact stomatitis focusing on their clinical presentation and the importance of differential diagnosis with other reactive, inflammatory and potentially malignant disorders of the oral cavity. Case report: the four cases affected adult females and presented as multifocal whitish and/or erythematous patches and plaques affecting the tongue, floor of mouth, and labial mucosa, showing mild burning sensation, and lasting 7 to 15 days. All patients reported starting the use of new toothpastes few days before the onset of the symptoms and all lesions disappeared in 5 to 7 days after suspension of its use. Conclusion: contact stomatitis to toothpastes should be considered in the differential diagnosis of oral white and red patches and plaques, and detailed clinical history is essential for prompt and correct final diagnosis. As the use of new oral rinses, toothpastes and other oral hygiene products is increasing, clinicians should be aware of the possibility of oral local reactions associated with their use.