Anbesol and Orajel are the two main local anesthetic numbing medications used to alleviate toothache pain. If you have a toothache, these two topical products can go a long way in helping you cope with and manage your condition.
But, which one should you pick between the two to treat your toothache? Is anbesol better than orajel? Or, is Orajel the better option? Which one works best? Are there any negative side effects associated with either?
These are some of the questions that might be in your head right now if you’re considering these two topical anesthetics and we are going to answer them here.
Anbesol vs Orajel for Relieving Tooth Pain – strongest toothache medicine
| Feature |  |
 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Anbesol | Orajel |
| Active Ingredient | Benzocaine | Benzocaine or Lidocaine |
| Uses | Temporary relief of toothache, canker sores and mouth sores | Temporary relief of toothache, canker sores, mouth sores, and minor lip and mouth irritations |
| Dosage | Apply a small amount of the gel or liquid to the affected area and allow it to remain there for up to 15 minutes. Repeat every 3 hours as needed. | Adults and Children 2 years of age and older: Apply a small amount of the gel or cream to the affected area and allow it to remain there for up to 10 minutes. Repeat every 3 hours as needed. |
| Warning and Precautions | Not recommended for children under 2 years of age. Not recommended for use in the eyes or over large areas of the body. Avoid using this product if you have a history of methemoglobinemia (a rare blood disorder) or if you are allergic to local anesthetics of the amide type. | Not recommended for children under 2 years of age. Not recommended for use in the eyes or over large areas of the body. Avoid using this product if you have a history of methemoglobinemia (a rare blood disorder) or if you are allergic to local anesthetics of the amide type. |
| Ingredients | Benzocaine 20% w/w, as active ingredient. Inactive Ingredients: Carbomer 934, FD&C Blue No. 1, Flavor, Imidurea, Sodium Saccharin, Sodium Hydroxide, and Water. | Benzocaine 20% w/w or Lidocaine 5% w/w, as active ingredient. Inactive Ingredients: Carbomer 934, FD&C Blue No. 1, Flavor, Imidurea, Sodium Saccharin, Sodium Hydroxide, and Water. |
These toothache pain relievers can have similarities as well as differences. Firstly, anbesol and orajel contain benzocaine as the main ingredient. So they are benzocaine topical medications that work by blocking nerves that convey pain sensations to the brain. Both are available in a variety of different forms, including liquid and gel; and there are variants for children and adults, and in different strengths. Both medicines are also associated with side effects including common and serious, rare side effects.
Anbesol and Orajel are both topical medications used to relieve pain associated with toothaches, canker sores, and cold sores. They both contain similar active ingredients, such as benzocaine and menthol, which work to numb the affected area. However, one difference between the two is that Anbesol also contains a small amount of phenol, which can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Additionally, Orajel also comes in a gel form, which may be more effective for some individuals.
One common misconception about Anbesol and Orajel is that they are interchangeable and will work the same way for all types of pain. In fact, these medications are formulated to target specific types of pain, such as toothaches, canker sores, and cold sores. It’s important to use the correct medication for the specific type of pain you are experiencing. Additionally, some people may mistakenly believe that Anbesol and Orajel can be used to treat more serious dental problems, such as cavities or abscesses, when in fact they are only intended to provide temporary relief of pain symptoms and it’s important to see a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.
Anbesol vs Orajel: A Comparison of Toothache Relief Options
Toothache is a common ailment that affects many people at some point in their lives. It can be caused by a variety of factors, such as cavities, gum disease, or even a cracked tooth. While a trip to the dentist is always the best course of action, sometimes relief is needed right away. That’s where over-the-counter toothache remedies come in. Two popular options are Anbesol and Orajel. But which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll compare the two products to help you decide.
Anbesol
Anbesol is a liquid oral anesthetic that is used to relieve toothache pain. It contains the active ingredient benzocaine, which numbs the area where it is applied. This can provide temporary relief for toothache pain caused by a variety of factors, such as a cavity, a cracked tooth, or even a tooth abscess.
Anbesol also contains menthol, which can provide a cool, soothing sensation. This can be especially helpful for toothache pain caused by inflammation or swelling. In addition, Anbesol also contains a small amount of alcohol, which can help to disinfect the area and reduce the risk of infection.
It’s important to note that Anbesol should not be used for more than a week at a time, and should not be used on children under the age of 2. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should also consult with a healthcare provider before using Anbesol.
Anbesol for Toothache Facts:
- Offers effective treatment for toothache pain, teething pain, and mouth ulcers
- Comes in gel and liquid form as well as patches
- Can contain benzocaine, benzocaine/povidone-iodine/phenol, or benzocaine/phenol as the active ingredient(s)
- The drug is available over the counter
Orajel
Orajel is another popular over-the-counter toothache remedy. It comes in a variety of forms, including gel, cream, and swabs. Like Anbesol, it contains the active ingredient benzocaine, which numbs the area where it is applied. This can provide temporary relief for toothache pain caused by a variety of factors.
In addition to benzocaine, Orajel also contains a variety of other ingredients, such as menthol and camphor, which can provide a cool, soothing sensation. This can be especially helpful for toothache pain caused by inflammation or swelling.
It’s important to note that Orajel should not be used for more than a week at a time, and should not be used on children under the age of 2. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should also consult with a healthcare provider before using Orajel.
Orajel for Toothache Facts:
- Helps relieve toothache pain, mouth ulcers, teething pain, teething, and drooling
- Can contain benzocaine, benzocaine/allantoin, carbamide peroxide, or zinc chloride/benzalkonium chloride as the active ingredient(s)
- The drug is available in gel and solution form
- Orajel is available as over the counter medicine
Comparison
When it comes to relieving toothache pain, both Anbesol and Orajel can be effective. They both contain the active ingredient benzocaine, which numbs the area where it is applied. This can provide temporary relief for toothache pain caused by a variety of factors.
One key difference between the two products is the form in which they come. Anbesol is a liquid, while Orajel comes in a variety of forms, including gel, cream, and swabs. This can make Orajel more versatile, as it can be used in different ways depending on the individual’s preference.
Another difference is the additional ingredients in Orajel. It contains a variety of other ingredients such as menthol and camphor, which can provide a cool, soothing sensation. This can be especially helpful for toothache pain caused by inflammation or swelling.
Common side effects of Anbesol and Orajel:
- Mild stinging, burning or itchy feeling at the application site
- Tenderness or redness of gums (at the application site)
- Slight swelling
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
Serious Side Effects of Anbesol and Orajel:
- Lack of energy
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Severe headache
- Bluish, paling, or grayish coloring of the skin, lips, or fingernails
- Fast heart rate
- Confusion
- Lightheadedness
These are symptoms of a condition known as methemoglobinemia, a life-threatening condition that is characterized as a significant reduction in the amount of oxygen in the blood.
Other serious side effects of overdosing on Anbesol and Orajel include:
- Severe burning, stinging, tingling of gums (at the application site)
- Severe allergic reaction, which may include: swelling of the gums, throat, tongue, lips or face
- Severe irritation or redness
- Signs of infection like oozing or blistering
If you observe or suspect you have any of these symptoms when using either of these medications to numb pain, stop using the medication and get emergency medical help right away.
It’s also not recommendable to use these medications to treat toothache pain if you’ve had methemoglobinemia or its symptoms before. Make sure you use only the recommended amount of the drug, as overdosing of topical numbing medications can lead to these life-threatening side effects. These benzocaine topical products are absorbed through the gums/skin into the blood. If you use too much of the drug, it’s absorbed directly into the system causing these negative side effects.
Additionally, it is wise to seek the advice of your doctor before using any of these benzocaine topical products, particularly if you have or have ever had:
- Heart disease
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Emphysema
- Breathing disorder
- Genetic enzyme deficiency, or if you smoke or are pregnant
Anbesol vs Orajel: Which One Should You Choose?
Now that you’ve learned basic facts about these medications, which one should you pick? how long does orajel last?
It’s worth noting that these two medications are not much different from each other. They contain the same basic ingredient – benzocaine. But some users have reported different levels of effectiveness and speed of action. Others swear that the two are essentially the same.
Nonetheless, orajel is generally considered the stronger and faster-acting of the two; and many reviews concur with this fact. When you apply anbesol on the affected tooth and area of the gums, you’ll definitely feel a degree of relief after a minute or two. The numbing feeling feels like the one you usually get when you visit your dentist office and he numbs your teeth before a procedure. But the feeling of numbness won’t stay for very long, and many users have confessed to being forced to reapply the gel or liquid in order to keep tooth pain at bay. In fact, according to most reviews, online many users found that the entire bottle of the drug gets finished after only a few days. And even then, each application of the drug never managed to get rid of all the pain. Actually, anbesol was not of much help to those individuals who used it to try to manage severe tooth pain.
However, on the other hand, those who used orajel found it quite effective for all forms of toothache pains. Reviews from actual users online reveal that the drug is more powerful than anbesol when it comes to fighting dental pain. It works faster and provides stronger relief for a longer period of time. By using orajel gel to numb your toothache, you can enjoy more effective and longer-lasting pain relief to help you go about your day and sleep easier when it comes time to rest. So, orajel delivers a higher concentration of tooth pain medicine available over the counter compared to anbesol. The formulation usually comes with menthol, which helps soothe and cool the affected tooth and gum area. It’s easy to apply and provides an instant yet long-lasting relief that you can depend on before you see your dentist.
Toothache pains are some of the most sudden, bothersome and common attacks, usually without warning. The pain can prevent you from eating, talking, walking, and even sleeping. It’s a terrible thing that creates a lot of discomfort among adults and children, alike. And, if you cannot get to your dentist immediately, either anbesol or orajel can be a savior. Both are effective local anesthetics for tooth pain and provide a reliable way to mitigate mild to severe toothache pains. But, orajel seems to be a more reliable option when dealing with severe toothache pain.
Toothache Relief: Alternatives to Traditional Treatments
- Clove oil: Clove oil contains eugenol, which is a natural anesthetic and anti-inflammatory agent. It can be applied topically to the affected tooth or gums to provide temporary relief of toothache.
- Garlic: Garlic has natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation caused by toothache. You can chew on a garlic clove or crush it to make a paste and apply it to the affected area.
- Salt water rinse: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the gums, as well as remove food particles and bacteria from the affected area.
- Peppermint tea bags: Applying a warm peppermint tea bag to the affected tooth or gum can help reduce pain and inflammation. The menthol in peppermint has a numbing effect on the tooth and gums.
- Hydrogen peroxide: Mixing hydrogen peroxide and water to create a mouthwash, can help remove bacteria and food particles from the affected area.
F.A.Q.
Q: How long can I use Anbesol or Orajel for toothache relief?
A: Both Anbesol and Orajel should not be used for more than a week at a time. If your toothache persists for longer than a week, it’s important to see a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Q: Can I use Anbesol or Orajel if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
A: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult with a healthcare provider before using either Anbesol or Orajel.
Q: Is Anbesol or Orajel suitable for children?
A: Both Anbesol and Orajel should not be used on children under the age of 2. If your child is experiencing toothache pain, it’s important to see a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Q: What are the other options for toothache relief?
A: Some other options for toothache relief include over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and applying a cold compress to the affected area. It’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause of the toothache and receive the appropriate treatment.
Other Comparisons:
- Anbesol vs. Ambesol
- Orajel vs. Orabase
Links:
- American Dental Association (ADA): https://www.ada.org/
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD): https://www.aapd.org/
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR): https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/
Conclusion
In conclusion, toothache can be a debilitating condition, but relief is available. Anbesol and Orajel are two popular over-the-counter options that can provide temporary relief for toothache pain. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these products should not be used for more than a week at a time, and should not be used on children under the age of 2. If you are experiencing toothache pain, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause and receive the appropriate treatment. And always consult with a healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter products.
Active ingredients in Anbesol and Orajel
If you’re someone who suffers from frequent toothaches or gum pains, you may already be familiar with Anbesol and Orajel – two popular over-the-counter products that are designed to relieve oral discomfort. But have you ever wondered what exactly makes these products work? Let’s take a closer look at their active ingredients.
Anbesol and Orajel both contain benzocaine, a local anesthetic that works by numbing the area it’s applied to. This can help to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by toothaches, gum soreness, and other oral irritations. Benzocaine is also commonly used in other topical pain relief products, such as those designed for sunburn or insect bites.
While benzocaine is the primary active ingredient in both Anbesol and Orajel, there are a few differences between the two products. Anbesol also contains menthol and camphor. These ingredients work together to provide a cooling sensation and also have mild numbing effects. Orajel, on the other hand, contains no additional active ingredients beyond benzocaine.
It’s worth noting that while benzocaine is generally considered safe for use in topical products, there is a risk of an allergic reaction. If you experience any unusual symptoms after using Anbesol or Orajel, such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention immediately.
In conclusion, Anbesol and Orajel are both effective products that can provide relief from oral pain and discomfort. They both contain benzocaine, a local anesthetic that works by numbing the area it’s applied to. Anbesol also contains menthol and camphor, while Orajel does not. If you’re considering using one of these products, be aware of the potential risk of an allergic reaction and contact your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
Active ingredients in Anbesol and Orajel
If you’re someone who suffers from frequent toothaches or gum pains, you may already be familiar with Anbesol and Orajel – two popular over-the-counter products that are designed to relieve oral discomfort. But have you ever wondered what exactly makes these products work? Let’s take a closer look at their active ingredients.
Anbesol and Orajel both contain benzocaine, a local anesthetic that works by numbing the area it’s applied to. This can help to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by toothaches, gum soreness, and other oral irritations. Benzocaine is also commonly used in other topical pain relief products, such as those designed for sunburn or insect bites.
While benzocaine is the primary active ingredient in both Anbesol and Orajel, there are a few differences between the two products. Anbesol also contains menthol and camphor. These ingredients work together to provide a cooling sensation and also have mild numbing effects. Orajel, on the other hand, contains no additional active ingredients beyond benzocaine.
It’s worth noting that while benzocaine is generally considered safe for use in topical products, there is a risk of an allergic reaction. If you experience any unusual symptoms after using Anbesol or Orajel, such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention immediately.
In conclusion, Anbesol and Orajel are both effective products that can provide relief from oral pain and discomfort. They both contain benzocaine, a local anesthetic that works by numbing the area it’s applied to. Anbesol also contains menthol and camphor, while Orajel does not. If you’re considering using one of these products, be aware of the potential risk of an allergic reaction and contact your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
I have an upper denture due to a broken jaw. The dentist recommended using orajel for the pain and swelling of the gums around my teeth (which hurt like hell when I chew anything). After about two weeks on the med, it seems that I am getting more infection under my upper denture. Is there any harm in using Anbesol liquid? Will it be effective enough to numb the needed area before eating?
the anbesol should be ok to use but i can’t say for sure.. a dab will do u with all things.. that is pretty strong medicine..
can you use anbesol on a crowned tooth?
No, don’t use anbesol on a crowned tooth. Anbesol is a topical anesthetic that numbs mouth and throat pain, but can irritate ulcers or cause skin burns. You need to use something specially formulated for crowns such as Amantadine (Denamarin) or take ibuprofen tablets or liquid medicine by mouth. In my experience with denamarin orally and numbing with lidocaine patches, I was able to go through the complete procedure without discomfort.
I have two teeth that are killing me. My gums are now raw feeling. I feel like maybe I have used Oragel more than is good for me. I am going to try salt water rinses to see if that helps any. Hoping to find a dentist I can afford.
Anbesol really works to help reduce tooth and gum pain. Highly recommend this product.
How does Anbesol compare to Orajel?
Orajel has between 10% and 20% benzocaine as the main anesthetic ingredient. Anbesol has 20% benzocaine. So its up to you to see which one provides the best relief as even though they have the same ingredient, each may work differently with some people.
Does ambesol work better because I’ve been using oral gel and it doesn’t really help.
Anbesol doest have benzocaine its active ingredient is lidocaine. 2% anbesol is stronger then 10% benzocaine.
I had the worst toothache yesterday…I would even compare the pain to child birth…. when I read this post I said I would give it a try.. so I went to my local walgreens and put the stuff on in the car because i was in so much pain….it was like instant relief…i had to apply a second application like 1 hour later but after that no more pain…thank you so much for this article now i can make it to my appointment next week with ease
…. What stuff? Anbesol or Orajel?
Orajel.
Get in front of a mirror, swallow to get your mouth dry, and squeeze that golden slime on your achey-breaky tooth. Or put a little bb-sized lump on your finger and then use your finger to squish the gel into and around your tooth.
Orajel is basically the same stuff that the dentist puts in your gums before the big painkilling shot. It’s the good stuff. That’s also why it can cost about $10. But it’s great on any mouth sore, or tooth pain.
Heck, if you’ve got a paper cut on the tip of your finger, it’s damn good on that, too.
I was at my friend’s house, and she had a toothache, so she was carrying around some Orajel. She said it felt good/weird and put some on my mouth. It felt strange’ cuz part was more numb than the other so I was like “I need some more, it’s not equal” or something to that effect. And she said, “it’s like a drug!”
I remembered always having Anbesol, so I looked both up, and I think they’re pretty much the same.