Drs. Pamela Clark and Suha Reddy and our team at Pearland Pediatric Dentistry wanted to share an important message from the FDA:

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning to parents, caregivers, consumers, and dental care professionals about reports of serious injuries and potential hazards associated with the use of all models of the Spinbrush -- specifically the Arm & Hammer or Crest Spinbrush. Reports warned that while turned on, the brush head has either "popped off" or broken off in the user's mouth or near the face, causing cuts to the mouth and gums, chipped or broken teeth, swallowing and choking on the broken pieces, and injuries to the face and eyes.

• Before using the Spinbrush, inspect it for any damage or loose brush bristles. If you find any, do not use the brush. Report it to Church & Dwight, which can be reached toll-free at (800) 352-3384 or (800) 561-0752.
• Make sure the brush head is connected tightly to the brush handle, and test the brush outside of your mouth before using. If the connection feels loose or the brush head easily detaches from the handle, do not use the brush. Report it to Church & Dwight.
• Use care not to bite down on the brush head while brushing.
• To prevent injuries, always supervise children and adults who may need assistance when using the Spinbrush.
• Follow the instructions and recommended replacement guidelines included with the Spinbrush.
• Report injuries or problems with the Spinbrush to MedWatch-FDA's Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program -- either online (http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch), by regular mail, by fax or by phone.
• Regular Mail: Use postage-paid, pre-addressed FDA form 3500 (http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch)
• Fax: (800) FDA-0178
• Phone: (800) 332-1088
For more information on the risks and how to avoid them, read the FDA Consumer Fact Sheet here.

Dr. Clark and our team at Pearland Pediatric Dentistry would like all our parents to know The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, has issued a warning about over-the-counter teething pain medicines that contain benzocaine, a local anesthetic and the active ingredient.

The FDA has received reports of methemoglobinemia, a rare but serious blood disorder that is associated with pain relievers, including teething gels, that contain benzocaine sold under the brand names Anbesol, Hurricaine, Orajel, Baby Orajel, Orabase and generic brands.

Methemoglobinemia reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood stream and, in severe cases, can lead to death. Symptoms include pale, gray or blue-colored skin, lips, and nail beds; shortness of breath; fatigue; confusion; headache; lightheadedness; and rapid heart rate. Symptoms could possibly follow a single application of benzocaine with concentrations as low as 7.5 percent.

Read more by checking out this very important announcement. For more information, visit the FDA website and the ADA website.

Or, please call us at Pearland Pediatric Dentistry!