Bonjela gel is a widely recognized over-the-counter oral treatment designed to alleviate various forms of discomfort within the mouth. This topical gel provides soothing relief from pain, reduces inflammation, and addresses general irritation of the oral tissues. It is a common household item for managing minor oral ailments, offering a direct approach to localized pain management.
Common Uses for Bonjela Gel
Bonjela gel is used to provide targeted relief for several oral conditions. It soothes discomfort from common mouth ulcers, which are small, painful lesions that can appear on the gums, cheeks, or tongue. The gel also helps manage irritation and soreness from ill-fitting dentures or orthodontic braces. Furthermore, Bonjela alleviates the pain and irritation caused by cold sores, which are viral lesions that can develop on or around the lips.
How Bonjela Works
The effectiveness of the standard adult Bonjela formula stems from its two primary active ingredients: choline salicylate and cetalkonium chloride. Choline salicylate functions as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), providing localized analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects upon application. Cetalkonium chloride, the second active component, serves as an antiseptic agent. It helps to prevent secondary infections by actively inhibiting the growth of bacteria within the oral cavity.
Important Safety Information
The original Bonjela formulation, which contains choline salicylate, is not suitable for individuals under 16 years of age. This restriction is based on a potential association between salicylates and Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can affect the brain and liver, particularly in children recovering from viral illnesses such as chickenpox or influenza.
Users should wash their hands thoroughly before and after applying the gel. A small amount, a pea-sized amount or 1 centimeter of gel, should be tapped gently onto the affected area using a clean finger. This application can be repeated after three hours if necessary, but no more than six doses should be applied within a 24-hour period.
Side effects are generally mild, but localized reactions may occur at the application site. If symptoms persist for more than seven days or worsen, consult a doctor or dentist. Bonjela should also not be used if you have a stomach ulcer, are in the third trimester of pregnancy, or are breastfeeding, unless advised by a doctor.
Bonjela Product Variations
Consumers often encounter different Bonjela products, each formulated for specific age groups and conditions. While the original Bonjela Adult Gel is for individuals aged 16 and over, other products like Bonjela Teething Gel or Bonjela Junior Gel are designed for younger age groups. These child-appropriate formulations use different active ingredients, such as a local anesthetic like lidocaine hydrochloride, often combined with an antiseptic like cetylpyridinium chloride, instead of salicylates. Always read the product label to ensure the correct and age-appropriate Bonjela product is selected for use.