How Much Orajel Gel Is Too Much? (Full Guide) Side Effects and Overdose Symptoms

Orajel is a brand of topical oral analgesic that is commonly used to relieve toothaches, sore gums, and other oral pain 🦷. Like any medication, Orajel gel may cause side effects in some people.

Understanding Orajel: A Brief Overview

Orajel, containing benzocaine as its active ingredient, numbs the affected area, providing temporary relief from oral pain. Despite its efficacy, there are certain precautions and side effects users should consider.

What Does Orajel Gel Do? And How Does It Work?

A topical oral analgesic under the brand name Orajel is used to treat pain and discomfort in the mouth and gums. Benzocaine, a local anesthetic that numbs the affected area of the mouth, is the active component in Orajel.

Orajel gel temporarily relieves toothaches, sore gums, canker sores, and other oral pain when administered to the affected area.

It functions by preventing the brain from receiving pain signals from the injured location, which can help to lessen pain and discomfort.

Orajel comes in several different forms, including gels, liquids, and creams, and can be applied directly to the affected area with a cotton swab or finger.

“Understanding the nuances of Orajel usage empowers informed decisions, ensuring oral relief without compromising safety.”

American Dental Association

How To Apply Orajel Gel on Tooth or Gums?

To apply the gel to a tooth or gum, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Squeeze a small amount of Orajel onto your fingertip or a cotton swab.
3. Gently apply the Orajel to the affected area of the tooth or gum.
4. Rub the Orajel in gently to ensure it covers the entire area.
5. Wait a few minutes for the Orajel to take effect.
6. Avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after applying the Orajel to allow it to numb the affected area fully.
7. Use Orajel as directed on the packaging, and do not use it for more than a few days at a time.

It’s important to use Orajel only as directed and not to exceed the recommended dosage to avoid Orajel gel side effects.

Here’s a video that shows how to use it at home:

Dosage: Based on Weight, Age, and Overall Health

How Much Orajel Gel Is Too Much? The recommended dosage of Orajel can vary depending on the age, weight, and overall health of the individual.

It is important always to follow the instructions on the packaging and to talk to a healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the appropriate dosage for your specific situation.

In general, the recommended dosage for Orajel gel is as follows:

1. Adults and children 2 years of age and older: Apply a small amount of Orajel to the affected area up to four times daily or as directed by a healthcare provider.
2. Children under 2 years of age: Orajel is not recommended for use in children under 2 years of age unless directed by a healthcare provider.
3. Individuals with liver or kidney disease: Use Orajel with caution and talk to a healthcare provider before use, as individuals with liver or kidney disease may be more susceptible to side effects.
4. Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Use Orajel with caution and talk to a healthcare provider before use, as the safety of Orajel during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established.

Overdose Symptoms (Dangers of Orajel)

Overdosing on Orajel can cause various symptoms, including:

1. Nausea and vomiting
2. Dizziness or lightheadedness
3. Headache
4. Confusion or disorientation
5. Seizures
6. Rapid heart rate
7. Pale or blue-colored skin
8. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
9. Methemoglobinemia, which can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, lightheadedness, and rapid heart rate

Orajel Gel Common Side Effects

Some common side effects of Orajel gel for adults and children may include:

• Burning or stinging sensation at the application site
• Numbness or tingling in the mouth
• Discomfort or irritation in the mouth
• Headache
• Rash or itching

Orajel Gel Long-Term Side Effects

Prolonged use of Orajel gel or any product that contains benzocaine may lead to rare but potentially serious side effects. Some of the long-term side effects of Orajel gel can include:

1. Allergic reaction, which can cause difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and hives or rash.
2. Methemoglobinemia is a rare but serious condition that can occur when benzocaine is used in large amounts or for long periods.
3. Skin irritation: Prolonged use of Orajel gel may cause skin irritation, such as redness, swelling, or itching in the mouth or on the skin around the mouth.
4. Neurological effects: There have been rare reports of benzocaine use leading to neurological effects like tremors, seizures, or even coma.

How To Avoid the Side Effects?

There are several ways to help avoid or minimize the potential side effects of Orajel gel:

1. Use Orajel gel as directed: Follow the instructions on the packaging carefully, and do not use Orajel gel for longer than recommended.
2. Use the appropriate amount: Use only the amount of Orajel gel recommended by the packaging or your healthcare provider.
3. Avoid overuse: Do not use Orajel gel more frequently than recommended, even if you have persistent pain or discomfort.
4. Avoid use in children under 2 years of age: Orajel gel is not recommended for use in children under 2 years of age unless directed by a healthcare provider.
5. Avoid use in individuals with liver or kidney disease: If you have liver or kidney disease, use Orajel gel with caution and talk to your healthcare provider before use.
6. Avoid use in pregnant or breastfeeding women: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, use Orajel gel with caution and talk to your healthcare provider before use.
7. Be aware of potential side effects: Familiarize yourself with the potential side effects of Orajel gel and seek medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects.

By following these guidelines, you can help reduce the risk of side effects associated with using Orajel gel.

Apple Podcast

Brittany Sheehan will discuss Orajel’s side effects and much more in this episode.

Conclusion

While Orajel provides effective relief from oral discomfort, it’s crucial to use it responsibly. Understanding its potential side effects and using it as directed can help you make informed decisions about its usage. Always consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns about its safety or experience any unusual symptoms after application.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use Orajel on open sores in my mouth?

A1: It’s advisable not to use Orajel on open wounds, as it can lead to irritation and may delay the natural healing process.

Q2: Is Orajel safe for children?

A2: Orajel can be used in children, but it’s essential to follow pediatrician-recommended dosages and avoid overuse, especially in teething babies.

Q3: How quickly does Orajel work?

A3: Orajel typically provides relief within a few minutes of application. However, individual responses may vary.

Q4: Can I use Orajel if I’m pregnant?

A4: Pregnant individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using Orajel to ensure it’s safe for their specific situation.

Q5: What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Orajel?

A5: If you experience symptoms like rash, itching, or difficulty breathing after using Orajel, seek medical attention immediately.

Your Comments and Suggestions?

We hope that you have been able to get your answers about Orajel gel and gather more information on the usage, dosage, and side effects of this drug. If there is a point that has been missed or you know of other information about this drug, you can share it with us in the comments section of this article.