Teething tablets have been pulled from shelves and are no longer recommended by major health organizations

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against teething tablets and gels containing benzocaine or belladonna alkaloids. In 2011, the FDA recommended that parents stop using over-the-counter teething products with benzocaine because of the risk of a serious condition called methemoglobinemia, which reduces the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream. Products containing belladonna alkaloids (such as Hyland's Teething Tablets, which were widely sold) were also flagged as potentially unsafe because the amount of active ingredient in each tablet can vary unpredictably.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Dental Association both recommend against using teething tablets and gels. Instead, they suggest safer methods to soothe a teething baby's discomfort. If you have teething tablets at home, the FDA recommends throwing them away rather than using them.

Key Takeaways

  • The FDA has warned against teething tablets and gels because they can cause serious side effects, including a blood oxygen condition called methemoglobinemia.
  • Products labeled as "natural" or homeopathic, like Hyland's Teething Tablets, are not safer—the FDA found inconsistent ingredient amounts in these products.
  • The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using a clean, cold teething ring or gently rubbing your baby's gums with a clean finger instead.
  • If your baby is in significant pain, talk to your pediatrician about what is safe for your child's age before using any product.

Why benzocaine products became unsafe

Benzocaine is a numbing agent found in many over-the-counter teething gels and some tablets. When applied to the gums, it reduces pain signals. However, in rare cases—especially when used repeatedly or in larger amounts—benzocaine can trigger methemoglobinemia. This condition changes hemoglobin in the blood so it cannot carry oxygen properly, leaving a baby short of breath and potentially causing serious harm.

The risk is highest in babies under two years old, which is exactly the age group most likely to be teething. The FDA received reports of infants experiencing blue-tinged skin, difficulty breathing, and lethargy after benzocaine use. Because teething pain is temporary and not life-threatening, the FDA determined the risk outweighed any benefit.

The problem with "natural" and homeopathic teething tablets

Many parents assume that products labeled "natural" or "homeopathic" are automatically safer than conventional medicine. Hyland's Teething Tablets, one of the most popular brands, contained belladonna alkaloids—compounds derived from the deadly nightshade plant. The manufacturer claimed the dose was so small it posed no risk, but the FDA's testing found that the amount of belladonna in each tablet was inconsistent. Some tablets contained much more than others, making it impossible to predict a safe dose.

The FDA does not regulate homeopathic products the same way it regulates conventional medicines. This means homeopathic teething tablets do not have to prove they are safe or that they work before being sold. The word "homeopathic" on a label does not mean a product has been tested or approved by the FDA.

Safe ways to soothe a teething baby

A clean, cold teething ring is one of the safest options. The cold numbs the gums naturally without any medication. You can refrigerate (not freeze) a teething ring so it is cold but not so hard that it damages tender gum tissue. Silicone or rubber rings work well because they are durable and straightforward to clean.

Gently rubbing your baby's gums with a clean finger also provides relief. The pressure and coolness of your finger can soothe sore areas. A clean, damp washcloth that has been chilled in the refrigerator can serve the same purpose. Some babies find comfort in chewing on a clean spoon that has been cooled.

Avoid teething necklaces, bracelets, or rings that your baby wears around their neck or wrist. These pose a choking or strangulation hazard and are not recommended by the AAP. Similarly, do not freeze teething rings solid—they can be too hard and potentially damage developing teeth and gums.

When to talk to your pediatrician

Teething typically causes mild to moderate gum soreness and drooling. If your baby seems to be in significant pain, has a fever, or is not eating or sleeping well, contact your pediatrician. These symptoms may indicate something other than teething, such as an ear infection or other illness.

Your pediatrician can recommend pain relief options that are safe for your baby's specific age. For babies over six months, acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be options, but dosing depends on your baby's weight and age. Never give your baby any medication without checking with your pediatrician first.

What to do if you have teething tablets at home

If you have Hyland's Teething Tablets or any other teething product containing benzocaine or belladonna alkaloids, the FDA recommends disposing of them safely. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain, as this can contaminate water supplies. Instead, check the product packaging for disposal instructions, or take them to a pharmacy that has a medication take-back program.

Many pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens, offer free medication disposal services. You can also search for a local take-back location through the DEA's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day program or by calling your local pharmacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all teething tablets unsafe, or just certain brands?

The FDA warning applies to any teething tablet or gel containing benzocaine or belladonna alkaloids, regardless of brand. This includes both conventional and homeopathic products. If a teething product contains either of these ingredients, it is not recommended by major health organizations.

Can I use teething tablets if my baby is older than two years?

The FDA's primary concern is babies under two, but the agency still recommends against teething tablets for all ages. Safer alternatives like cold teething rings work for older toddlers too. If your older child is in pain, ask your pediatrician about age-appropriate options.

Do teething tablets actually work to relieve pain?

Teething tablets with benzocaine do numb the gums temporarily, which is why parents used them. However, the relief is short-lived and the safety risk is not worth the benefit. Cold teething rings and gentle gum massage provide relief without medication and are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

What if my baby's teething pain is really severe?

Severe pain during teething is unusual and may signal something else, like an ear infection. Contact your pediatrician to rule out other causes. If it is teething, your doctor can recommend safe pain relief based on your baby's age and weight.