Amber teething necklaces have become increasingly popular among parents looking for natural remedies to alleviate their baby’s teething pain. These necklaces are made of Baltic amber, a fossilized tree resin that is believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
The idea behind amber teething necklaces is that when worn, the baby’s body heat triggers the release of succinic acid, which is then absorbed into the skin and bloodstream, providing relief from teething pain.
However, there is some controversy surrounding the safety and effectiveness of amber teething necklaces. While some parents swear by their effectiveness, others are concerned about the potential choking hazard and the lack of scientific evidence supporting their use.
In this article, we will explore the topic of amber teething necklaces in more detail, examining their history, how they work, and the potential risks and benefits associated with their use.
Key Takeaways on Do Teething Necklaces Relieve Teething Pain
Teething pain remedy — Amber teething necklaces have been used for centuries as a natural remedy for teething pain, but their safety and effectiveness are still debated.
Safety first — Safety concerns include choking and strangulation hazard as well as allergic reactions. Parents should always supervise children when wearing one and remove it for sleeping or unsupervised playtime.
Choosing the right necklace — When choosing an amber teething necklace, factors to consider include color and clarity of beads, size and length of the necklace, quality and authenticity of the amber.
Definition of Amber Teething Necklace
A Baltic amber teething necklace is a piece of jewelry that is worn by babies or toddlers when they are teething. It is made of Baltic amber, which is fossilized tree resin that is found in the Baltic region of Europe.
The necklace is made up of small beads that are strung together and individually knotted. It is designed to be worn around the neck or wrist, and the theory is that the warmth of the baby’s skin triggers the release of succinic acid, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory and painkilling properties.
History of Amber Teething Necklace
Amber teething necklaces have been used for centuries in Europe as a natural remedy for teething pain. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that amber had healing powers, and it was used to treat a variety of ailments, including teething pain.
In the Middle Ages, amber was used as a remedy for a variety of illnesses, and it was believed to have magical powers.
How Amber Teething Necklace Works
The theory behind amber teething necklaces is that the warmth of the baby’s skin triggers the release of succinic acid, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory and painkilling properties. The succinic acid is then absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin, where it can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
However, there is no scientific evidence to support this theory, and the safety and effectiveness of amber teething necklaces are still a matter of debate. It is important to note that amber teething necklaces are not designed to be chewed on or played with, as this can pose a choking hazard.
Parents should always supervise their child when wearing an amber teething necklace and should remove it when the child is sleeping or unsupervised.
Benefits of Using Amber Teething Necklace
Natural Pain Relief
One of the main benefits of using an amber teething necklace is natural pain relief. The necklace is designed to be worn by babies when they are teething. The common belief is that the child’s body heat warms the amber, causing it to release oils containing succinic acid.
The succinic acid, in theory, gets absorbed into the bloodstream, helping to ease the baby’s pain. Succinic acid is a natural analgesic, or pain reliever, making it a great alternative to over-the-counter pain medications.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Amber teething necklaces also have anti-inflammatory properties. The succinic acid found in the amber has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, making it helpful in reducing inflammation and swelling in the child’s gums. This can be especially beneficial for babies who are experiencing discomfort and pain due to teething.
Calming Effect
Another benefit of using an amber teething necklace is the calming effect it can have on babies. It relieves pain and can help soothe and calm babies who are experiencing teething pain and discomfort. The natural pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties of the succinic acid can help to reduce fussiness and irritability in babies, making it easier for them to sleep and relax.
Overall, amber teething necklaces can be a natural and safe alternative to traditional teething remedies. However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence to support the claims made by proponents of the necklaces. It is also important to use caution when using any teething remedy and to always supervise babies when they are wearing the necklace.
Safety Concerns
Choking and Strangulation Hazard
One of the most significant safety concerns with amber teething necklaces is the risk of choking. The beads on the necklace can break off, and if a baby or toddler were to swallow them, it could lead to choking or even death.
The clasp on the necklace could also break, and the baby could swallow it, leading to similar risks. To prevent this, parents should always supervise their children when they are wearing amber teething necklaces and remove them when the child is sleeping or unsupervised.
A mom named Danielle Morin has issued a warning to other parents about the strangulation risk of a teething necklace when she found her son Deacon unconscious after the necklace tightened around her child’s neck.
Allergic Reactions
Another safety concern with amber teething necklaces is the risk of allergic reactions. Some babies may be allergic to the materials used in the necklace, leading to rashes, hives, or other skin irritations.
To prevent this, parents should test the necklace on a small patch of the child’s skin before putting it on their baby’s neck. If there is any sign of an allergic reaction or irritation, the necklace should be removed immediately.
Supervision and Care
Parents should always supervise their children when they are wearing amber teething necklaces.
The necklace should be removed when the child is sleeping or unsupervised. Additionally, the necklace should be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria or other harmful substances.
Parents should also inspect the necklace regularly to ensure that it is in good condition and that there are no loose beads or other hazards. It is also important to follow child safety tips to avoid serious injuries.
How to Choose an Amber Teething Necklace
Color and Clarity
When choosing an amber teething necklace, it is important to consider the color and clarity of the beads. Amber comes in a range of colors, from light yellow to dark brown.
The color of the beads does not affect their effectiveness, but it can affect the overall appearance of the necklace. In terms of clarity, it is best to choose beads that are clear and free of inclusions, as this indicates a higher quality of amber.
Size and Length
The size and length of the necklace are also important factors to consider. The necklace should fit comfortably around your baby’s neck, with enough room for two fingers to fit between the necklace and the skin.
The length of the necklace can vary, but it is generally recommended to choose a necklace that is between 12 and 14 inches long. This length ensures that the necklace is not too long, reducing the risk of choking or strangulation.
Quality and Authenticity
When purchasing an amber teething necklace, it is important to ensure that it is made from genuine Baltic amber. Look for necklaces that come with a certificate of authenticity, and avoid purchasing from sellers who cannot provide this documentation.
The quality of the amber can also affect the effectiveness of the necklace, so it is best to choose necklaces with high-quality, polished beads.
When choosing an amber teething necklace, consider the color and clarity of the beads, the size and length of the necklace, and the quality and authenticity of the amber. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that you choose a safe and effective necklace for your teething baby.
FAQS on Amber Teething Necklaces
Do amber necklaces really work for teething?
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that amber necklaces work for teething. Although some parents believe that amber necklaces can help alleviate teething pain, this claim is anecdotal and not backed by research.
How do amber teething beads work?
Proponents of amber teething necklaces claim that when worn against the skin, the body heat releases succinic acid from the amber beads, which is then absorbed into the bloodstream.
They believe this natural compound has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that help soothe teething discomfort. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims.
Can babies sleep with amber necklace on?
It is not recommended for babies to sleep with an amber necklace on, as it can pose a strangulation risk. To ensure your baby’s safety, always remove any necklaces or jewelry before putting them to sleep.
How quickly does amber work for teething?
As there is no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of amber for teething, it is difficult to provide a time frame for its alleged benefits.
Is amber necklace safe for babies?
Amber necklaces can pose safety risks for babies, including choking and strangulation hazards. Babies can accidentally swallow or choke on the beads if the necklace breaks.
Moreover, wearing a necklace can pose a strangulation risk, especially during sleep or when unsupervised. It is essential to prioritize safety over potential benefits when considering using an amber necklace for your baby.
What are the side effects of amber teething necklace?
Potential side effects of amber teething necklaces include:
- Choking hazard: If the necklace breaks, a baby might swallow or choke on the beads.
- Strangulation risk: There is a serious risk of the necklace getting caught on something, leading to strangulation.
- Skin irritation: Some babies may experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction to the amber beads or the necklace’s materials.
- Delay in seeking appropriate treatment: Relying on an amber necklace to alleviate teething pain may cause parents to delay seeking proper care or treatment for their baby’s discomfort.
