Orajel Dental Gel is a widely available over-the-counter topical anesthetic that provides temporary relief from minor discomfort in the mouth and gums. It helps manage minor mouth sores, gum irritation, and temporary toothache pain.
Understanding Orajel Dental Gel
Orajel Dental Gel primarily contains benzocaine, a local anesthetic. Benzocaine works by temporarily blocking nerve signals in the applied area, leading to a numbing effect that reduces pain perception. The gel is used for temporary relief of pain associated with minor mouth sores, gum irritation, and toothaches, such as those from a broken tooth or one requiring a filling. While Orajel provides rapid relief, it is a temporary solution and not a cure for underlying dental issues.
How to Apply Orajel Dental Gel
To apply Orajel Dental Gel effectively, first ensure your hands are clean to prevent introducing bacteria. Next, dry the affected tooth and gum area with a paper towel or gauze to remove saliva, which can dilute the gel.
Once the area is dry, squeeze a pea-sized amount of gel onto a clean fingertip or a cotton swab. A cotton swab can offer better maneuverability. Apply the gel directly to all surfaces of the affected tooth and surrounding gums, ensuring a thin coating. After application, tilt your head to the opposite side of the affected area for one to two minutes; this helps prevent saliva from washing away the gel. Orajel Dental Gel can be used up to four times daily, but it is intended for short-term use until you can consult a dentist.
Important Safety Information
Orajel Dental Gel, particularly products containing benzocaine, carries significant safety considerations. A rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia can occur, where the amount of oxygen carried by the blood is significantly reduced. Symptoms, which can appear within minutes to hours after application, include pale, gray, or blue discoloration of the skin, lips, or nail beds, shortness of breath, fatigue, confusion, headache, and a rapid heart rate. If any of these symptoms appear, discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against using benzocaine products for teething pain in infants and children younger than two years old due to the increased risk of methemoglobinemia in this age group. Some Orajel Baby products are now formulated to be benzocaine-free to address this concern. For adults and children aged two years and older, benzocaine products should only be used if they include specific warnings on the drug facts label. Allergic reactions such as burning, stinging, itching, redness, rash, or swelling may also occur. Consult a healthcare professional if pain persists, worsens, or if any concerning symptoms develop.