The oral cavity, in the space of a day, comes into contact with many substances: from food, to chewing gum, snacks, drinks and even products for the hygiene of the mouth; substances that could potentially cause acute oral hypersensitivity.
Hypersensitivity and allergic-type contact stomatitis
Allergic contact stomatitis that occurs with acute hypersensitivity of the oral cavity can be triggered by any type of substance that comes into contact with the oral mucous membranes.
The symptomatology of an allergic stomatitis can be variable, in fact the patient can experience various symptoms, including:
- burning sensation;
- erythema;
- edema and injuries;
- red and white lesions for more severe conditions.
Symptoms can be localized or widespread, depending on the type of allergen that triggered the acute hypersensitivity form.
Oral hygiene products and acute oral hypersensitivity
Oral hygiene products can also trigger allergic contact stomatitis.
Chlorhexidine, for example, a substance that characterizes almost all mouthwashes and even toothpastes, can lead to acute hypersensitivity of the oral cavity.
As part of a research published in OOO of August 2020, some researchers have documented a clinical case of acute gingival hypersensitivity to chlorhexidine.
The study of a clinical case
A 58-year-old patient presented with an erythematous area on the right upper anterior gum. The researchers performed an incisional biopsy. After the surgery, a chlorhexidine-based gel was prescribed twice a day, but the patient had to stop the therapy immediately because he felt a strong burning immediately after the first application.
The diagnosis was nonspecific mucositis with acute oral hypersensitivity. The patient also reported using chlorhexidine-based toothpaste twice a day in recent years.
A delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to the toothpaste was therefore hypothesized. Chlorhexidine was considered the allergen because it is present in both the gel and the toothpaste.
Withdrawal of chlorhexidine gel therapy and also discontinued use of toothpaste, complete remission of the lesion and acute hypersensitivity occurred.
The dentist’s advice
When cases of acute hypersensitivity of the oral cavity occur, it is always a good idea to schedule a check-up visit to the dentist. The timely diagnosis of allergic contact stomatitis allows the allergen to be identified in time and the problems resolved quickly.
