Can I give my dog orajel?

If your dog has a toothache you may be considering the use of Orajel to ease their discomfort. Though this product is marketed for people, many canine owners claim it offers relief for pets.

If Orajel can provide oral pain relief for your dog, even if just temporarily, why not use it? Alternatively, there are those who would rather take their dogs to a vet and not risk using medications without a consultation and diagnosis. It’s a judgement call.

The good news is that Orajel isn’t harmful for dogs if used correctly and carefully. In any case, let’s learn more about the use of this popular toothache reliever as it applies to pets.

Can I Give My Dog Orajel? Answer: As Needed

Obviously preventative dental care is preferable instead.

Video: Orajel + My Dogs = xD

Dental care for dogs is important. Many people are surprised to discover what trouble bad teeth can lead to for their pets, not least of which is pain. For example, the build up of tartar and neglect of canine gums becomes a place for bacteria to thrive. Orajel isn’t going to solve these problems.

Some dental issues could cause serious illnesses like sepsis of the blood and heart problems. Older dogs are at a higher risk of developing such ailments.

Video: Orajel PRANK!!!

Orajel Recall Confusion

Orajel was recalled, not long ago, but this applied to use for human babies. An ingredient it contains, called Benzocaine, wasn’t recommended. Rest assured, Benzocaine is an anesthetic that’s commonly used by vets. Many dog owners keep it in the house as part of their first-aid-for-dogs kit. If you wish to be on the safe side, don’t use Orajel for puppies but they are unlikely to require it in the first place.

Care Negates Orajel Need

Just like you need to visit the dentist regularly, your dog needs to see a vet for dental health. Don’t let teeth-related trouble start in the first place. Preventive action is key to good dental health. Ask your vet about brushing and how to best look after your dog’s teeth, with cleansing biscuits and the like.

Regular tartar cleaning contributes to a long and healthy canine life. It’s a bit of a pain to do this, since your dog will need to be anesthetized, but it’s worth it.

Dental Problem Symptoms

You may not even realize that your dog is having tooth trouble assuming it’s a mild problem in the early stages. You’ll likely know if it gets really bad. At that point you may try Orajel to make them feel better temporarily.

Dogs’ mouths don’t have the best smell, but if it seems worse than normal, then you should get a check-up done. One of the symptoms of looming problems is bad breath or halitosis. Other things to watch out for are difficulty eating, inflammation of the gums and excessive drooling. It really helps to be vigilant about your dog’s dental situation, this way Orajel use becomes unlikely to be required.

Toothache Alternatives

If you don’t want to apply Orajel to your dog’s gums, try some other alternatives like clove oil. This is something humans use which can also be applied on dogs.

If you have a teething puppy who seems uncomfortable, get some gum massagers or teething toys (like Chilly Bone). These usually need to be frozen before being provided. Pups really like to chew on these toys and, at the same time, this can hopefully spare other stuff around the house from being gnawed on.

Never use human toothpaste when cleaning your dog’s teeth or try and remove tartar buildup yourself. The latter could prove harmful if certain bacteria get released and enter your dog’s blood stream.

Orajel Conclusion

If your dog is in a lot of dental pain and you cannot get to a vet, a bit of Orajel won’t harm them. This, however, is only a temporary solution and not a cure. You should get to the root of the problem, no pun intended, and take your dog in for a dental checkup as soon as possible.

Reviews & Comments