Understanding the Dangers of Benzocaine in Teething Treatments
When children begin teething, their discomfort often prompts concerned parents to seek relief solutions. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has consistently warned against using over-the-counter (OTC) products containing benzocaine for this purpose. Recently, the FDA has taken significant steps to remove such products from store shelves, citing the association of benzocaine with a rare yet potentially severe medical condition.
According to a public statement issued on May 23, 2018, the FDA advised that OTC oral health products containing the pain reliever benzocaine for teething in infants or young children should no longer be marketed. The FDA has instructed companies to cease the sale of these products for teething discomfort. Should companies not comply, the FDA will initiate regulatory action to remove these products from the market.
Benzocaine, a topical anesthetic used under various brand names such as Anbesol, Cepacol, Hurricane, Orajel, and Topex, can also be found in generic or store-brand forms as gels, sprays, ointments, or tablets. Despite differing labels or forms, benzocaine poses significant risks for infants and young children.
Benzocaine Dangers: What Parents Need to Know
Benzocaine is associated with a condition known as methemoglobinemia—a rare but serious and potentially fatal disorder. This condition arises when the blood contains elevated levels of methemoglobin, a protein similar to hemoglobin. Unlike hemoglobin, methemoglobin carries less oxygen to body tissues, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and dizziness. In severe cases, methemoglobinemia can cause seizures, unconsciousness, or even death.
Certain medications, including local anesthetics such as benzocaine and lidocaine, can induce a significant increase in methemoglobin levels, posing an acute risk for young children.
Safe Alternatives for Teething Relief
What can parents do to relieve their child’s teething discomfort safely? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry suggests several simple and safe alternatives:
1. Chilled Teething Rings: Offer your child a clean rubber teething ring that has been cooled in the refrigerator (not frozen) to provide soothing relief.
2. Cold Washcloths: A cool, damp washcloth can be gently chewed to ease teething pain.
3. Chilled Pacifiers: A refrigerated pacifier may help, but ensure it is free from harmful substances like lead paint.
4. Gum Massage: Gently massage your child’s gums with a clean finger, which can help alleviate the pressure of emerging teeth and reduce inflammation.
If discomfort persists, consult with a healthcare professional to recommend a safe OTC pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, at a dosage appropriate for your child. However, avoid giving your child any form of alcohol as a remedy.
Through awareness and adherence to safer methods, parents can effectively manage their child’s teething pain without exposing them to the risks associated with benzocaine. For more guidance and support, contact your pediatrician or visit trusted health resources.
For additional inquiries or services related to your child’s dental health, feel free to reach out to us:
Phone: (503) 614-0198
Website: East Wind Dental Care
Address: 7546 NE Shaleen St, Hillsboro, OR 97124
By staying informed about the dangers of benzocaine and opting for safer alternatives, parents can provide comfort to their teething children with peace of mind.
East Wind Dental Care
Dental Implant placement in Hillsboro, Oregon, and Beaverton Oregon
family dentistry in Hillsboro
https://eastwinddentalcare.com
amily and Cosmetics Dentistry in Hillsboro, Oregon.
East Wind Dental Care Family and cosmetics dentistry in Hillsboro Oregon. We at East Wind Dental Care are committed to providing quality dental care to families located in the Hillsboro and Beaverton area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful. East Wind Dental Care at Hillsboro, Oregon provides a wide variety of dental services and procedures to address all of our patients' dental health needs. By combining quality patient care with up-to-date technology, we are able to treat patients of all ages in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our website includes information on the following items: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Dental Veneers, Dentures, Dental Crowns and more. Our Dentist and expert staff are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This comprehensive approach sets patients of East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro on the road to recovery and long term oral health. When you walk into the office of East Wind Dental Care you will be immediately greeted by our friendly staff who are dedicated to making sure that you feel comfortable during your entire appointment. We understand that patients can feel anxious when going to the dentist, and our staff will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and help you understand exactly what your procedure is going to be like. At East Wind Dental Care we pride ourselves on being an affordable family dentist that accepts a variety of insurance plans and payment options like cash and credit cards, because we want to provide a beautiful, healthy smile to everyone in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area. Call East Wind Dental Care today at 503-614-0198 to see why we are the dentist of choice in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area.
Address: 7546 NE Shaleen St Hillsboro, OR 97124, USA
Phone: 503-614-0198 Call us today!
Website: https://www.eastwinddentalcare.com
Dentist in Hillsboro, OR - East Wind Dental Care provides general dentistry in Hillsboro. Make your next family dentist appointment at East Wind Dental Care. General Dentistry, Preventative Dentistry, Pediatric (Kids!) Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Tooth Replacement. Crowns and Bridges, Dental Implants & Mini Dental Implants Dentures (with specialty), Complete denture, Partial Dentures.
East Wind Dental Care
Family and cosmetics dentistry in Hillsboro Oregon.
We at East Wind Dental Care are committed to providing quality dental care to families located in the Hillsboro and Beaverton area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful.
East Wind Dental Care at Hillsboro, Oregon provides a wide variety of dental services and procedures to address all of our patients' dental health needs. By combining quality patient care with up-to-date technology, we are able to treat patients of all ages in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our website includes information on the following items: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Dental Veneers, Dentures, Dental Crowns and more. Our Dentist and expert staff are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This comprehensive approach sets patients of East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro on the road to recovery and long term oral health.
When you walk into the office of East Wind Dental Care you will be immediately greeted by our friendly staff who are dedicated to making sure that you feel comfortable during your entire appointment. We understand that patients can feel anxious when going to the dentist, and our staff will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and help you understand exactly what your procedure is going to be like. At East Wind Dental Care we pride ourselves on being an affordable family dentist that accepts a variety of insurance plans and payment options like cash and credit cards, because we want to provide a beautiful, healthy smile to everyone in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area. Call East Wind Dental Care today at 503-614-0198 to see why we are the dentist of choice in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area.
East Wind Dental Care
Address: 7546 NE Shaleen St Hillsboro, OR 97124, USA
Phone: 503-614-0198 Call us today!
Opening Hours Mon - Fri: 8:00 - 17:00 and Saturdays with appointments.
Website: https://eastwinddentalcare.com/
Make an appointment online at https://eastwinddentalcare.com/contact-3/
