Ask Jae: Why Does My Grandpa Think Toothpaste Is a Snack?

Jan 21, 2025

It might sound funny at first—“My grandpa is eating toothpaste!”—but if you’re living this reality, you know it’s more alarming than amusing. Trust me, I’ve heard it all before, and I’m here to help you figure out what’s going on and what to do about it.

Let’s dive into why this happens and how to address it with care.

Why It Happens

When seniors start eating or chewing on unusual things like toothpaste, it’s usually a symptom of something deeper. Here are the most common reasons:

1. Cognitive Decline

Conditions like Alzheimer’s or dementia can alter how someone perceives everyday items. Toothpaste might look or smell like candy to them, especially if it’s brightly colored or has a sweet minty aroma. For someone whose brain isn’t processing things the way it used to, it might feel perfectly logical to take a bite.

2. Nutritional Deficiencies

Sometimes, odd eating habits are the body’s way of signaling it’s missing something. For example, people deficient in minerals like zinc or iron might develop cravings for non-food items—a condition called pica.

3. Sensory Comfort

The texture or flavor of toothpaste might be soothing, especially for someone who struggles with anxiety or has become fixated on certain sensations. For some, chewing toothpaste might bring a sense of calm, even if it’s not the healthiest option.

4. Forgetting Proper Use

Memory loss can cause someone to forget what toothpaste is actually for. They might mistake it for a snack because it’s familiar but no longer associated with brushing their teeth.

How to Handle It

Here’s what I recommend when dealing with a toothpaste snacker:

1. Stay Calm and Don’t Scold

Your grandpa isn’t doing this to be difficult or stubborn—it’s likely tied to cognitive or emotional changes. Avoid making him feel embarrassed or ashamed. A gentle approach works best.

2. Switch to a Safer Toothpaste

Look for non-toxic, fluoride-free toothpaste. While it’s still not meant to be eaten, it’s less harmful if accidentally ingested. Brands that cater to kids often have these options.

3. Monitor Nutritional Intake

Talk to his doctor about possible deficiencies. Blood tests can reveal if he’s low on essential vitamins or minerals, and supplements might help curb unusual cravings.

4. Secure the Bathroom

If the behavior becomes frequent, you might need to limit access to toothpaste or store it in a place that’s out of reach. You can also try keeping a small amount on hand instead of the whole tube.

5. Offer Safe Alternatives

If the chewing seems to be about sensory comfort, try giving him something else that’s safe and satisfying. Soft mints, sugar-free gum, or even flavored dental chews might do the trick.

6. Seek Professional Guidance

If this behavior persists, it’s a good idea to involve a healthcare professional. A neurologist, dietitian, or geriatric specialist can provide tailored advice based on his specific needs.

What This Really Means

Odd behaviors like eating toothpaste are often signs that your loved one needs more support. It could be time to assess whether additional care is needed, whether that’s occasional check-ins or full-time assistance. The good news? There are solutions.

When to Reach Out

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to handle changes in your loved one’s behavior, you don’t have to do it alone. At Caringene, we specialize in helping families navigate the challenges of aging with dignity and compassion here in Washington. Whether you need advice or hands-on support, we’re here for you. Feel free to contact us at staff@caringene.com or call us at 425-298-6493. Alternatively, you can also fill out our contact form here.

Got more questions? Email us at staff@caringene.com!

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Resources

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Sat–Sun: Open 24 hours

© 2024 Caringene, Inc.

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Resources

Office hours

Mon–Fri: Open 24 hours

Sat–Sun: Open 24 hours

© 2024 Caringene, Inc.