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Time to read 4 min
When we think of heartburn triggers: spicy food, caffeine, or late-night snacks usually come to mind.
Not brushing your teeth and rinsing your mouth. For some people, however, the toothpaste does cause acid reflux symptoms.
Let’s break down why you get heartburn from toothpaste, and what you can do about it.
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Mint is the most common flavoring in toothpaste. After using it, your mouth feels cool and clean.
For people prone to acid reflux, however, mint can actually relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This is bad for you, as the LES is the muscle keeping stomach acid from rising up your throat.
If you already struggle with GERD or acid reflux, brushing with a minty paste or using a peppermint flavored rinse could trigger symptoms.
SLS is a chemical that helps foam your toothpaste. It helps give that “clean” feel to the toothpaste that people like to feel in their mouth.
It’s also an irritant for people with sensitive stomachs or acid reflux.
SLS doesn’t directly cause heartburn,
but if you accidentally swallow a tiny bit while brushing (a common occurrence), it may irritate your esophagus.
Many mouthwashes contain alcohol. As much as 26%.
This high alcohol content could do the following:
Both of these are bad and increase heartburn pain.
Most people brush before bed.
If you lie down right afterward, gravity doesn’t help keep the acid down.
Combine this with the fact that you used mint toothpaste, and you’re going to have a heartburn-ridden sleep if you struggle with acid reflux a lot.
Sometimes you don’t actually have acid reflux, you just feel like it. Heartburn from toothpaste is common, but the feeling can also come from oral or esophageal activity.
If your esophagus is already irritated (due to GERD or another condition), even liquids that aren’t acidic at all (high pH) can feel very uncomfortable.
That burning isn’t stomach acid, but your stomach reacting to something harsh.
If your toothpaste or mouthwash is giving you heartburn:
Oral hygiene is extremely important, but there are many “defaults” in this field that people don’t think about.
You don’t have to get mint toothpaste. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate isn’t a necessary ingredient.
If you’re consistently getting heartburn from toothpaste or after using mouthwash, it might be time to check on your products. Not just your diet.
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Avoid SLS at all costs. Reduce your chance of getting heartburn from toothpaste by avoiding the chemicals.
Brush early before bed. Gravity is your savior, but make sure to give it adequate time to do it's job.
Change up the toothpaste. Try a different flavor, brand, or type of toothpaste. What works for others might not work for you.
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Yes, many people experience heartburn from toothpaste, especially if it contains strong mint flavors or harsh foaming agents. These ingredients can irritate the esophagus or relax the muscle that keeps stomach acid in place, triggering or worsening acid reflux.
The biggest causes of heartburn from toothpaste are:
Mint oils (like peppermint): They can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to acid reflux.
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS): A common foaming agent that can irritate the throat or gut.
Artificial additives: Colors, sweeteners, or preservatives may upset sensitive stomachs in some people with GERD.
Fluoride itself is unlikely to directly cause heartburn from toothpaste, but for some very sensitive individuals, high levels of fluoride or accidentally swallowing too much toothpaste could contribute to irritation that feels like reflux. Most people tolerate fluoride just fine.
The most natural toothpaste options avoid ingredients that may trigger heartburn from toothpaste, like mint, SLS, and artificial additives. Look for brands that are fluoride-free (if you choose), SLS-free, and use essential oils or herbal ingredients—like Tom’s of Maine or David’s Natural Toothpaste.
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) in teens can feel like frequent heartburn—a burning sensation in the chest or throat—especially after eating. It may also include sour burps, a chronic cough, or trouble sleeping due to discomfort. It’s more serious than occasional heartburn and should be checked out by a doctor.
Claisen Inc. is the world's leading telehealth platform for gastrointestinal conditions. We provide patients with personalized solutions for heartburn and bloating treatment, tailored to their unique needs and lifestyle.
support@claisen.com
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