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Can Bonjela gel be used for teething in infants?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My son is four months old. I want to know if I can use Bonjela teething gel which is indicated for children above five months. My son has started teething, and I am contemplating using Bonjela gel, but I have concerns that it may be toxic. Currently, he is using Sodamint and Ashton powders.

Please suggest.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Georges Hany Kozah

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

It is great that you are being cautious about your baby's health. Bonjela (antiseptic gel) teething gel is commonly used for soothing teething pain, but it is generally not recommended for babies under five months. This is because Bonjela contains Benzocaine, a local anesthetic, and Benzocaine is not safe for infants younger than four months due to the risk of methemoglobinemia (a condition that reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen).

Why to avoid Bonjela for a four-month-old: The gel may cause adverse reactions, such as irritation in babies under five months. Benzocaine (in some teething gels like Bonjela) can be dangerous, especially in very young infants. Young babies have more sensitive systems and may not be able to metabolize certain ingredients safely.

Alternative teething solutions that are safe to use for a 4-month-old:

Chilled teething rings: Use a soft teething ring that is chilled (not frozen) to soothe sore gums.

Cold washcloth: Let your baby chew on a clean, damp washcloth that has been chilled in the fridge.

Teething toys: Look for Bisphenol-A (BPA)-free, soft, and safe teething toys that your baby can chew on.

Massage: You can gently rub your baby's gums with a clean finger to soothe discomfort.

Pain relievers: If needed, consult your pediatrician for appropriate pain relief options for babies under six months (such as infant Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen).

Always check with your pediatrician before using any products on your baby to make sure they are safe and appropriate for their age.

I hope this information helps you.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At May 27, 2025
Reviewed At June 9, 2026

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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