Is it safe to use a teething necklace?
When your child is teething,
it can be embarrassing for the whole family. Your child may be restless and
will not sleep. The rest of the family, as well as your child, may also be
awake at this time, and all you want to do is help your child.
You may be looking for ways to
help your child teeth through without giving them painkillers. Teething
necklaces are a popular choice, but are they safe for babies?
About teething necklaces
- What is a teething necklace? Teething necklaces are usually made from tiny Baltic amber
beads strung together and fastened at the ends with a clasp. Knots are tied
between each bead for extra security. This means that if the necklace ever
breaks, only one bead will come off, reducing the risk of a child choking on
it.
- It is important to know that teething jewelry is also shaped to fit your baby's ankle or wrist. Our advice applies to all three types of amber teething jewelry.
- How does a teething necklace work? Baltic amber is the fossilized resin of trees. The idea
behind amber teething necklaces is that the oil from the resin of the tree is
absorbed into your baby's skin as he chews it. People who prefer amber teething
jewelry say that Baltic amber has the ability to act as a pain reliever for
your baby's gums, which swell and hurt when teeth break through the skin.
- Safety issues for teething necklaces. Experts have advised against the use of teething necklaces
after a number of infant deaths from asphyxiation were reported. It is possible
that the beads will fall out of the teething necklace without anyone noticing
and your baby will put the beads in her mouth. In addition, the collar may be
too tight around the child's neck, blocking the air supply.
- Safe use of teething necklaces. If you decide to use a teething necklace for your baby,
there are a few guidelines you should follow to make sure they are safe when
using it:
- Always watch your baby when they are wearing or using teething jewelry.
- Choose a bracelet or anklet instead of a necklace to prevent the risk of your baby getting it wrapped too tight around their neck and cutting off airflow.
- Take the teething jewelry off of your baby when you aren't actively watching them. This includes during car rides.
- Take the teething jewelry off for naps and at bedtime.
Other considerations for teething necklaces
Other ways to treat teething
symptoms. Talk to your child's doctor if you have any concerns about teething
necklaces. They may have other suggestions for relieving your baby's pain
during teething. You can relieve your child's symptoms by doing the following:
- Chew toys: These children's toys are made of thick and durable
plastic, rubber or silicone. Sometimes the pressure that comes from chewing on
something can help reduce your baby's teething discomfort.
- Cold things: Cold items are a great alternative to gum numbness so that your child's pain will decrease for a while. Try wetting a towel, tying it up, freezing it, and then letting your baby hold and chew it. Avoid gel-filled teethers that you put in the freezer, as they may be too hard for younger children.
- Massage: Gently rubbing a child's gums can relieve their condition. Wash your hands first and then have them chew on your finger or knuckle for a while.
- Medicines: Teething discomfort can last for several weeks, so medications are not a good solution when you have to give them to your baby every day. When your child is in pain and cannot be relieved, ask the doctor for a dose of acetaminophen. Be sure to follow the dosage and doctor's instructions.
- Numbing gels: Avoid gels or creams that are said to numb your child's gums if they contain benzocaine. These gels and creams can reduce the amount of oxygen in your child's blood, which can be dangerous for him.
- Silicone teething jewelry. You may be tempted to use teething necklaces or other jewelry with silicone, rubber, or plastic beads designed for your baby to chew on. Remember that they pose the same choking hazard as Baltic amber teething jewelry and should be avoided unless you supervise your child while using them.