In an effort to educate our patients and the public about dental health issues and treatments available for San Diego dentistry, we pass on helpful research and information that runs across our desk.
The latest health update relates to oral viscous lidocaine given to babies to help with teething pain.
According to the American Dental Association, some common pain relievers can cause serious harm to infants. “Too much of the drug given orally to infants or young children can result in seizures, severe brain injury and heart problems, and misuse has led to hospitalizations and deaths, the FDA warns. In 2014, the FDA reviewed 22 case reports involving serious adverse reactions to oral viscous lidocaine solution, including six deaths, in infants and young children 5 months to 3.5 years old.
The FDA also warns that parents and caregivers should not use over-the-counter topical medications for teething pain because some of them can also harm infants and children. Aside from potential danger, these products are not necessary and are not useful, according to the FDA, because they tend to wash out of a baby’s mouth within minutes.”
Read the rest of the story here.
Learn more about this your San Diego dentistry health and treatment options by asking a question or making an appointment to talk with our team.