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Topical anesthetic
Also called: numbing gel, benzocaine, topical
A gel, liquid or spray that numbs the surface of the gums.
Topical anesthetics numb the surface tissue before injections or for sensitive areas. Benzocaine (up to 20%) is the most common. The FDA has warned that benzocaine can cause methemoglobinemia, a rare but serious condition that lowers oxygen in the blood, and it should not be used for teething or in children under 2.
How to spot it
- A small jar of flavored gel used with a cotton-tipped applicator, or a metered spray.
What it is used for
- Dry the area, apply a small amount with a swab only where needed, as the clinician directs.
Safety and care
- Use only a small amount, only where needed.
- Watch for pale, gray or blue skin, lips or nail beds, headache, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, tiredness or fast heart rate (minutes to 2 hours after use) and alert the clinician.
- Do not double-dip; take an amount out for each patient.
Related
Sources: Local Anesthetic Drugs Used in Dentistry, AAFP News (2018-05-30). OTC benzocaine teething products not safe for young children (reporting the FDA drug safety communication), FDA. FDA Drug Safety Communication: FDA continues to receive reports of a rare, but serious and potentially fatal adverse effect with the use of benzocaine sprays for medical procedures