No benzocaine for babies!! Benzocaine, a common ingredient in teething gels, can cause the rare but fatal condition blood condition called methemoglobinemia. Methemoglobin in the blood stream inhibits oxygen delivery from the blood to the body. Symptoms include blue, pale or gray lips, skin and nail beds as well as shortness of breath, confusion, headache, fatigue, lightheadedness and increased heart rate. It is important to call 911 immediately if these symptoms occur after use of these products. The FDA recommends that no children under age 2 use these products without the direct supervision of a medical professional. Safer ways to relieve teething pain include chilled (not frozen) teething rings or massage with a cold wash cloth.