Yes, some people are allergic to latex. However, this is not a reason to avoid dental appointments. Latex is a natural rubber harvested from trees. Many products, including toys, pacifiers, tires, balloons, bandages, medical tape, and surgical gloves, may contain latex. Type 1 latex allergies are the most serious and can cause nausea, low blood pressure, respiratory arrest and even death.
Symptoms begin within minutes after contact with the protein allergens in latex.
Type IV, the most common latex allergy, is less serious. The symptoms include dry skin, hives, tingling sensations, or itching. Symptoms usually appear 48-72 hours after the initial exposure. Latex allergies are relatively rare. People that are continually exposed to latex, have spina bifida, or have had multiple surgeries are at a higher risk of developing an allergy to latex.