Allergies are becoming increasingly common in modern society. While they are most often associated with food, pollen, or cosmetics, it is important to know that allergic reactions can also be triggered by materials used in dentistry. Although relatively rare, reactions to dental materials can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms—from mild itching to more serious local or systemic reactions. For this reason, recognising early warning signs and understanding which safe alternatives are available for sensitive patients is essential.
In this article, we discuss the most common allergens used in dental practice, possible symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment approaches. Special emphasis is placed on patient safety and the importance of an individualised treatment plan.
What are allergic reactions to dental materials?
An allergic reaction is an exaggerated response of the immune system to otherwise harmless substances. When the body identifies a specific material as a threat, a defence mechanism is activated, which may result in inflammation, irritation, or even systemic symptoms. In dentistry, this means the body reacts to certain components used during treatment—such as fillings, crowns, adhesives, impression materials, or orthodontic appliances.
Most reactions occur within the oral cavity (so-called contact stomatitis), but symptoms can sometimes spread to the skin or cause general health issues. These reactions are usually delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions, meaning they do not appear immediately but develop hours or even days after exposure.
Which dental materials most commonly cause allergies?
Although all dental materials are tested and approved for clinical use, some individuals develop sensitivity to specific components. The most common triggers include:
1. Metals
• Nickel – the most frequent cause of allergic reactions in dentistry; commonly found in orthodontic wires, bridges, and metal crown bases
• Cobalt and chromium – used in dentures and metal alloys
• Mercury – a component of amalgam fillings (now rarely used)
2. Acrylates (methyl methacrylate)
• Used in the fabrication of full or partial dentures and some temporary materials
• May cause allergic contact dermatitis or irritation of the oral mucosa
3. Impression materials
• Polyvinyl siloxanes, alginates, and polyethers may irritate, especially if they remain in contact with the mucosa for too long
4. Composite materials and adhesives
• Contain resins, initiators, and other components that may cause redness, burning sensations, or irritation in sensitive individuals
5. Latex
• Latex gloves are a common source of allergy, particularly among dental staff, but also in patients who come into contact with latex barriers or devices
What symptoms can allergic reactions in the oral cavity cause?
Symptoms may range from very mild to severe and can appear immediately or several days after exposure, depending on the type of allergy. The most common signs include:
• Redness and burning sensation on the tongue, cheeks, or palate
• Swelling, tightness, or pressure sensation in the mouth
• Dry mouth (xerostomia) without an obvious cause
• Changes in the mucosa – blisters, scaling, or ulcerations
• Itching and irritation of the palate
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Burning sensation of the tongue and lips
• Skin rash on the face or neck (in more severe cases)
In rare situations, a generalised reaction may occur, such as urticaria (hives) or symptoms resembling anaphylaxis—although this is extremely uncommon in dental practice.
How is an allergy to dental materials diagnosed?
A definitive diagnosis of allergy can only be made by a physician, often in collaboration with a dermatologist or allergist. Since oral symptoms can resemble other conditions (such as fungal infections, toothpaste irritation, or poorly fitting dentures), a thorough diagnostic approach is essential.
Diagnostic procedures may include:
• Medical history – detailed discussion of symptom onset, duration, and materials used
• Clinical examination of the oral cavity and skin
• Patch testing (epicutaneous test) – the most common method, where suspected substances are applied to the skin of the back, and reactions are assessed after 48–72 hours
• Latex or metal-specific tests, especially in patients with known sensitivities
In some cases, the dentist may recommend temporary removal of the suspected material to observe whether symptoms improve.
What should you do if you suspect an allergic reaction?
If you notice unpleasant symptoms after a dental procedure, it is important to:
• Contact your dentist immediately and describe when symptoms started, what treatment was performed, and how symptoms progressed
• Avoid attempting to remove dental materials yourself or using mouth rinses without professional advice
• Consult a dermatologist or allergist if testing is required
In confirmed cases of allergy, the dentist will remove the irritating material and replace it with a safer alternative.
Safe alternatives for sensitive patients
The good news is that modern dentistry offers many highly biocompatible materials with very low allergenic potential. For patients with known allergies or suspected sensitivities, the following options may be used:
• Metal-free ceramic crowns and bridges
• BPA-free composite materials without aggressive initiators
• Hypoallergenic acrylic denture materials
• Silicone-based impression materials with minimal additives
• Nitrile gloves instead of latex gloves
For patients undergoing more extensive treatments such as implant therapy, ceramic implants may be considered. These contain no metal alloys and are increasingly popular among patients with multiple allergies.
What if you already have dental work that causes symptoms?
If you have a bridge, filling, orthodontic appliance, or denture that causes persistent irritation, immediate removal is not always necessary. Symptoms may sometimes result from poor fit or other factors such as mechanical irritation, fungal infection, or inadequate oral hygiene.
The evaluation process includes:
• Clinical assessment of the area
• Exclusion of other causes (infection, trauma)
• Material testing if an allergy is suspected
• Removal or replacement of the material if an allergic reaction is confirmed
In patients with multiple dental restorations made from different materials, collaboration between the dentist, allergist, and dental technician is often essential to achieve a long-term, safe solution.
How does Esthea approach patients with dental material allergies?
At Esthea Polyclinic, patient safety is always our top priority. Therefore:
• We take a detailed medical history and apply an individualised approach before every procedure
• We use proven, next-generation biocompatible materials
• We offer hypoallergenic options for fillings, crowns, and dentures
• We advise patients with known allergies and refer them for additional diagnostics when necessary
• We emphasise prevention, careful material selection, and patient education
If you have experienced unpleasant reactions during or after dental treatment, we encourage you to contact our team. With timely advice and high-quality materials, safe and effective treatment can be achieved—without unwanted side effects.
Not every irritation is an allergy—but every symptom should be taken seriously
Sensitivity to dental materials does not mean the end of high-quality dental care. Today, there is a wide range of safe alternatives that allow treatment without health risks. The key lies in communication—if you suspect an allergy or have experienced reactions in the past, be sure to inform your dentist before treatment.
With timely intervention and the support of an experienced professional team, it is entirely possible to achieve a healthy, functional smile without compromising your overall health.