Is Teething Jewelry Good for Your Child's Oral Health?
Posted on 3/3/2025 by Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry
As a pediatric dentist, I understand the struggles that come with teething. Your little one might be fussy, drool excessively, and have trouble sleeping. You're probably looking for ways to soothe them and make this phase a little easier. Lately, you might have heard about teething jewelry, but you're unsure if it's a safe and effective option.
Let's dive into the world of teething jewelry and explore its potential impact on your child's oral health.
What is Teething Jewelry?
Teething jewelry is typically a necklace or bracelet made of silicone or other materials with textured surfaces. The idea is that babies can chew on the jewelry, which might provide relief from the discomfort associated with teething. Some necklaces even contain amber, which is believed to have pain-relieving properties when warmed by the skin.
Potential Benefits of Teething Jewelry
•
Sensory Stimulation: The textured surfaces of the jewelry can provide sensory stimulation to the gums, which might offer some comfort to teething babies.
•
Chewing Satisfaction: Chewing on the jewelry can help satisfy the urge to chew that often accompanies teething.
•
Distraction: The bright colors and interesting textures of the jewelry can distract your baby and take their mind off the discomfort.
Potential Risks of Teething Jewelry
•
Choking Hazard: Small parts of the jewelry can break off and pose a choking hazard, especially for younger babies who tend to put everything in their mouths.
•
Strangulation Risk: Necklaces can be a strangulation hazard, particularly if they get caught on furniture or other objects.
•
Gum Damage: Constant chewing on hard surfaces can damage the gums and potentially interfere with the development of healthy teeth.
•
Lack of Evidence: There is limited scientific evidence to support the claims that amber or other materials in teething jewelry have pain-relieving properties.
Alternatives to Teething Jewelry
Instead of relying on teething jewelry, consider these safer and more effective alternatives:
•
Gum Massage: Gently massage your baby's gums with a clean finger or a soft, wet washcloth.
•
Cold Compress: A cool washcloth or a chilled teething ring can soothe inflamed gums.
•
Teething Toys: Offer your baby a variety of textured teething toys made of safe materials.
•
Over-the-Counter Medications: If your baby is in significant pain, consult your pediatrician about over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
The Bottom Line
While teething jewelry might seem like an appealing option, the potential risks outweigh the benefits. Opt for safer and more effective alternatives to help your little one through the teething phase.
Remember, consulting your pediatric dentist is always the best way to ensure your child's oral health and well-being. We can provide personalized advice on teething management and address any concerns you might have.
Blog - Wichita, KS • Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry At Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Healy created this informative blog to assist with educating the community about various topics of pediatric dentistry. Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry, 3933 N. Maize Road, Suite 200 Wichita, KS 67101 | (316) 202-9629 | tinyteethwichita.com | 3/12/2025 | Page Terms:Pediatric Dentist Wichita KS |
As a pediatric dentist, I understand the struggles that come with teething. Your little one might be fussy, drool excessively, and have trouble sleeping. You're probably looking for ways to soothe them and make this phase a little easier. Lately, you might have heard about teething jewelry, but you're unsure if it's a safe and effective option.