How Do You Use Gel Melts?

What Are Gel Melts?

Gel melts are a type of oral care product made from a gel wax that slowly releases active ingredients as it dissolves in the mouth. They are designed to provide relief for mouth irritations like canker sores, dry mouth, or denture discomfort. The key benefits of gel melts include:

The main ingredients in gel melts are gel wax, which has a higher melting point than regular wax, allowing the product to dissolve slowly over several hours. They also contain active ingredients like oils, aloe vera, vitamin E, menthol, and other soothing botanicals depending on the specific formula.

Compared to mouthwashes and oral pain relief gels which provide only temporary relief, gel melts continue releasing ingredients gradually over time. The wax base also helps coat and protect irritated areas in the mouth. Unlike ointments and gels, gel melts dissolve slowly without needing to be reapplied frequently.

When to Use Gel Melts

Some of the most common times to use gel melts include:

Dry mouth/xerostomia – Gel melts can provide relief for dry mouth or xerostomia. The gel releases moisture into the mouth slowly over time to keep it lubricated. Dry mouth can be caused by certain medications, medical conditions, or aging.https://ellaandi.co.uk/blogs/news/how-to-use-gel-wax-melts

Mouth sores – The moisturizing effect of gel melts can soothe pain and discomfort from canker sores, cold sores, or other mouth irritations. The gel helps coat and protect sore areas in the mouth.

After dental procedures – Procedures like tooth extractions, fillings, or oral surgery can leave your mouth feeling sore. Applying a gel melt helps moisturize the area for healing and provides cooling relief from any swelling or irritation.

How to Apply Gel Melts

Before applying gel melts, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This helps prevent spreading germs or bacteria to the sensitive areas of your mouth (Source).

Gel melts come with a removable backing that protects the sticky side of the melt. Peel off this backing to expose the adhesive (Source). Avoid touching the sticky side too much, as it can impact adhesion.

Place the gel melt directly onto your gums or roof of your mouth, adhesive side down. Press gently to secure it in place. Be sure not to place gel melts on teeth, dental work, or oral wounds or sores.

Let the gel melt dissolve slowly on its own. Do not chew or actively try to dissolve it. This allows the gel to provide soothing relief over time. Resist the urge to peel off the melt prematurely.

Where to Place Gel Melts

Gel melts can be placed on specific areas of dryness or irritation in the mouth for targeted relief. Some common areas to place gel melts include:

Areas of irritation or dryness: If you have a sore, cut, or dry patch in your mouth, you can place a gel melt directly on the irritated area to provide soothing relief and moisture.

Roof of mouth: The roof of the mouth is a common area of dryness. Placing a gel melt here can provide hydration and lubrication.

Gumline: Dryness along the gumline is also common. Applying gel melts along the gumline helps keep this area hydrated.

Dentures: For those wearing dentures, gel melts can be applied to the roof of the mouth or gum areas underneath dentures to prevent friction and discomfort (Source).

How Often to Use Gel Melts

The frequency of using gel melts depends on your symptoms. For mild dry mouth or throat irritation, using a gel melt 1-2 times per day may provide sufficient relief. For more severe symptoms, gel melts can be used up to 5 times per day.

Many people find using a gel melt at night is helpful for combating dry mouth and throat while sleeping. The moisturizing effects can last for hours to prevent waking up parched. You may want to place a gel melt by your bedside and apply it right before going to sleep.

It’s best to avoid overusing gel melts more than 5 times a day, as the gels can lead to dependency over time. Check in with your symptoms periodically and scale back usage if dryness improves.

According to one Reddit thread, some people burn in new gel melts at low heat for 10-20 minutes before use, which seems to extend their lifespan and effectiveness. But take care not to overheat or melt the gels entirely.

Work with your healthcare provider to determine the optimal frequency of gel melt usage for your individual symptoms and needs.

Duration of Relief

The duration of relief provided by gel melts can vary widely depending on the specific product used and the severity of the individual’s symptoms. Some studies have found gel melts can provide relief from dry mouth symptoms for up to 4 hours.[1] However, the actual duration will depend on factors like:

• The ingredients in the gel melt product – some formulas may last longer than others.
• The dosage/amount used – using more gel melt may prolong relief.
• The individual’s underlying condition causing dry mouth – severe cases may find shorter relief.
• Frequency of use – regular reapplication can extend relief duration.

Overall, gel melts may provide anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours of dry mouth symptom relief. Finding the right product and dosage for each individual is key. Those with severe dry mouth issues may need to reapply gel melts more often to maintain effects. Consulting a dentist or doctor can help determine appropriate gel melt use for long-lasting relief of symptoms.

Side Effects

Side effects from gel melts are uncommon, but may include the following:

– Allergic reaction. Some people may experience skin irritation or rashes from an allergy to an ingredient in the gel melts (Source). Discontinue use if a rash develops.

– Nausea or swallowing difficulty. If too much of the gel is ingested, it can cause nausea or make swallowing more difficult (Source). Use only as directed.

– See a doctor if any concerning side effects occur after using gel melts, especially if symptoms are severe or do not go away on their own. Rarely, serious allergic reactions can occur. Discontinue use and seek prompt medical attention in that case.

Precautions

There are some precautions to keep in mind when using gel melts:

Gel melts should not be used by children under 4 years old due to choking hazard. The small size and appealing scents of gel melts can be tempting to young children but can pose a safety risk if swallowed (Source).

Those with mouth sores or irritation should avoid citrus-flavored gel melts, as the acids in citrus oils can cause stinging and discomfort. It’s best to stick to soothing flavors like lavender or vanilla if you have mouth sores (Source).

People taking medications that cause dry mouth side effects should consult their dentist before using gel melts frequently. The dentist can provide guidance on whether increased use of gel melts is appropriate or if other treatments for dry mouth are recommended (Source).

Comparison to Other Products

Gel melts are generally more effective than other common oral care products like mouthwash, lozenges, and toothpaste when it comes to relieving dry mouth symptoms. This is because gel melts directly adhere to oral tissues and provide targeted lubrication and moisture over a sustained period of time.

Whereas mouthwashes provide only temporary relief and must be repeatedly reapplied, the gel matrix of gel melts allows for gradual release of ingredients directly where needed. The sticky consistency also allows the product to adhere to specific areas of irritation or dryness.

Similarly, lozenges primarily coat the throat and tongue, while gel melts can be directly applied to all tissues. Lozenges also require active sucking and dissolution, which may be difficult for some users. Gel melts simply adhere and dissolve gradually on their own.

Toothpastes help clean the teeth but do not provide ongoing relief for dry mouth. As an adjunctive therapy, gel melts provide lubrication and moisture that toothpaste cannot.

Finally, gel melts tend to be less messy than gels and sprays. Their solid pill form makes application clean and targeted. The product then gradually dissolves into a gel over time. This avoids the potential messiness of applying a liquid gel or spray.

In summary, gel melts represent an effective and convenient option for dry mouth relief compared to other common products like mouthwash, lozenges, toothpaste, gels and sprays. Their ability to directly adhere to oral tissues and provide sustained moisture over time makes them a preferred choice for many dealing with chronic dry mouth.

When to Seek Medical Care

You should seek medical care from your dentist or doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Severe or persistent dry mouth symptoms that are not relieved by over-the-counter treatments. Dry mouth that does not improve can negatively impact your oral health and quality of life (Mayo Clinic).
• Oral pain that is not relieved by hydration, saliva substitutes, or other at-home remedies. Unexplained mouth pain may indicate an underlying condition requiring medical attention (NHS Inform).
• Signs of infection like sore or swollen gums, pain, or redness. Dry mouth increases susceptibility to oral infections. Seek prompt medical care if you suspect any infection (NIDCR).

Early evaluation and treatment of persistent dry mouth can prevent further complications. Do not hesitate to consult your dentist or doctor if your symptoms concern you.