Some Denture Cleaners Could Pose Dangerous Allergy Risks. In 2008, the FDA released warnings to individuals who use denture cleaners. The warning was issued following reports that 72 people had been made ill, and one person died as the result of an ingredient that is included in many denture cleaners. The ingredient in question, persulfate, […]
Some Denture Cleaners Could Pose Dangerous Allergy Risks. In 2008, the FDA released warnings to individuals who use denture cleaners. The warning was issued following reports that 72 people had been made ill, and one person died as the result of an ingredient that is included in many denture cleaners. The ingredient in question, persulfate, is used to bleach and cleanse dentures, but presents a serious allergen risk.
According to companies that manufacture products containing persulfates, the ingredient will not injure people who use the product as directed. According to spokespersons for the manufacturers of Polident and Fixodent, the amount of persulfate included in these denture cleaner is less than the amount believed to cause allergic reactions if the product is used correctly.
Some of the individuals who suffered reactions to denture cleaners did misuse the product, while others said they used the product as directed and still suffered allergic reactions. Unfortunately, since the ingredients on some products includemouthwash, some people have used denture cleaner as mouthwash, which can lead to serious consequences, including seizures, vomiting, low blood pressure, breathing problems, and abdominal pain. Misuse of denture cleaner has also been reported to cause damage to the esophagus, blood in the urine, internal bleeding, and tissue bleaching or burning.
Even individuals who have used Denture Cleaners as directed have been harmed by persulfates. Symptoms include rashes, hives, irritation, tissue damage, gum tenderness, low blood pressure and breathing difficulties.
Identifying the source of an allergic reaction can at times be difficult. In the case of denture cleaners, some individuals suffered reactions after using the product just once, while other individuals used the product for years before having any adverse effects from the persulfates. Reactions can occur within minutes, or several hours after using denture cleaner. As a result, it is often challenging for people to know what is causing the symptoms and can lead to the individual continuing to use the product because they do not realize that it is the source of the symptoms. Reactions can come on suddenly, or get more severe and frequent over time with continued use of the product.
Following the reports of harm caused by Denture Cleaner, the FDA requested that manufacturers of denture cleaner include warnings on their packaging about the risks associated with persulfates. They also urged companies to research alternative, safer substances that could replace persulfates in denture cleaners.
Despite the concerns over persulfates in denture cleaner, many products are still using this ingredient in their products. It is necessary to use caution and follow the instructions. Never use denture cleaner as mouthwash, do not swallow denture cleaner, or gargle with it, and take the time to rinse dentures thoroughly before putting them into your mouth. However, risks exist even when the product is used correctly, so be aware of the symptoms and inherent risks associated with products that contain persulfates.
If you have suffered an injury or allergic reaction from using denture cleaners, contact an attorney to discuss your possible legal remedies. Call Parker Waichman LLP today at 1-800-YOURLAWYER (1-800-968-7529) for a free consultation with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys.