The Science Behind Amber Teething Necklaces: Do They Really Work?
Baltic amber teething necklaces may appear like a natural solution during this difficult stage for both parents and infants.
However, they come with questionable success claims, poor research, and serious safety hazards.
Two pediatricians have ruled Amber’s teething necklaces out as ineffective and unsafe.
However, it is problematic to displace amber teething jewelry as it is unsafe for infants. Instead, think about non-drug, natural remedies.
Knowing their risks and advantages, you can include amber necklaces in your baby’s kit. Your infant may benefit more from other options like all-natural, drug-free remedies.
How Does Amber Teething Necklaces Work?
Baltic amber, used to make teething jewelry, releases a tiny quantity of succinic acid containing oil, which is thought to have analgesic effects on swollen gums and lessen inflammation throughout the body.
The oil can help decrease drooling and is thought to be a natural painkiller. These claims, however, are backed by scant scientific data, and additional investigation is required to completely comprehend the possible advantages of amber beads for teething infants.
Speaking with a healthcare provider is also advised before utilizing any alternative treatments for teething discomfort.
No scientific proof exists that the oil improves pain despite being drug-free and created with natural ingredients.
What Are The Risks Of Using Amber Teething Necklaces?
Babies and toddlers who use amber teething necklaces run the risk of choking and perhaps strangulation. In 2018, the CPS reported that there were risks associated with a cord being wrapped around the neck of an infant. These risks could lead to strangulation in the face and neck, as noted by Abdulsatar.
Children ingesting the magnet clasp, non-fatal strangling by the necklace, choking on the beads, and contact dermatitis were all occurrences that Canadian doctors recorded.
Some amber teething necklaces are sold with “breakaway” clasps that, if applied just enough pressure, will give way, releasing the kid if it hooks on something. However, a 2018 study in Nova Scotia discovered that eight of the 15 necklaces failed to open with 1.6 pounds of force, and seven of the 15 necklaces failed to open with 15 pounds of muscle.
It was concluded by the researchers that if young toddlers get stuck in them, necklaces like these pose a risk of strangulation. Twenty-seven children brought to a French hospital’s dermatology clinic or emergency room had germs on their amber necklaces, including bacteria that can cause skin infections.
Pediatricians generally recommend against the use of amber necklaces as they pose a significant risk of choking if a child accidentally gnaws off a bead.
This risk applies to all types of teething necklaces, whether wood, rubber, or amber. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the FDA strongly advise parents not to provide babies with teething necklaces or bracelets, which can lead to choking and strangulation hazards.
What Alternatives Can You Consider?
Given below are some alternatives you can use for your teething necklaces:
1. Chewing Toys
Due to the counterpressure of gumming, teeters constructed of wood, plastic, or rubber help soothe sore gums. Any baby teething toy is appropriate for pain relief. However, textured surfaces are desired. Toys with no little pieces that could break off and present a choking hazard are preferable for safety.
Check teethers frequently for indications of use and choose ones that can be cooled in the refrigerator for additional comfort. Babies should not be given toilet paper or paper towel tubes. However, chewing can help with anxiety, focus, and oral sensory seeking.
They help kids develop oral tone and practice biting and chewing techniques securely and hygienically at home and school.
2. Gum Massaging
Washing hands and gently massaging a baby’s gums with fingers or knuckles might provide momentary comfort for sore mouth areas in babies. This pressure might offer a calming experience and ease teething discomfort. The gums can also be rubbed gently with a clean, wet towel.
This mild gum massage relieves teething pain because it numbs the gums. Healthy chewing alternatives such as raw fruit and vegetables, soft fruit like melon, a crust of bread, or a breadstick can also be helpful if the kid is six months or older.
To avoid choking, watching the baby’s eating patterns is crucial. Moderate gum massage is a fantastic approach to reduce teething discomfort and support a healthy gum environment.
3. Mesh Feeders
This infant feeder has a ring for the baby to hang onto and a mesh bag for the food. Small, easily absorbed food pieces can pass through, giving teething babies nutrition and comfort.
Food can have a range of textures, shapes, and sizes thanks to the mesh or silicone substance, which encourages sensory development.
By blending solid food into a mash, the pouch enables newborns to experiment with various flavors and textures. Parents can easily introduce different foods because the mesh or silicone material is simple to clean.
You may easily reduce the risk of choking by placing a piece of fruit, vegetable, or meat into the bag so the baby can chew, suck, and taste the goodness of the complete item.
An excellent substitute for teething toys is this feeder.