Teething is a challenging milestone for both babies and parents. As baby teeth begin to push through the gums, infants often experience discomfort, irritability, and drooling. To help manage these symptoms, some parents turn to a trending product: baby teething necklaces.
Baby teething necklaces come in various forms, with the three most common materials being amber, silicone, and wood:
- Amber Teething Necklaces: These are made from fossilized tree resin, typically sourced from the Baltic region. They’re often marketed as therapeutic due to their alleged release of succinic acid—a substance claimed to have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Silicone Teething Necklaces: Designed to be chewed on, these necklaces are made from food-grade silicone and are worn by parents, not the baby. The baby can safely bite or gnaw on them while being held.
- Wooden Teething Necklaces: Usually made from untreated hardwood and sometimes paired with fabric or silicone, these necklaces are also meant for gnawing and are popular among parents looking for natural, plastic-free options.
Manufacturers of amber teething necklaces often claim that when worn against the skin, body heat causes the amber to release succinic acid. This acid is said to absorb into the skin and reduce inflammation, drooling, and teething pain. Wooden and silicone teething necklaces are promoted more for their texture and ability to satisfy a baby’s instinctive need to chew.
During baby teeth development—typically between 4 to 7 months of age—parents look for solutions to soothe their little one’s discomfort. Traditional teething toys, cold washcloths, and infant-safe pain relievers are common go-tos. However, teething necklaces appeal to many parents as a natural, drug-free option that claims to offer constant relief without needing refrigeration or supervision.
When Baby Teeth Typically Erupt
Baby teeth, also called primary or deciduous teeth, usually start to erupt between 4 to 7 months of age. The lower central incisors are often the first to appear, followed by the upper central incisors. By age 3, most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth. However, the timing can vary widely from child to child—some babies may get their first tooth as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months.
Common Symptoms of Teething
The teething process often comes with a variety of symptoms, including:
- Increased drooling
- Swollen or tender gums
- Irritability or fussiness
- Chewing on fingers or toys
- Sleep disturbances
- Loss of appetite
Some parents also report mild fever or loose stools, though most pediatricians caution against directly linking these symptoms to teething without ruling out other causes.
What Science Says About Teething Pain and Inflammation
From a medical perspective, teething pain is thought to result from the pressure and inflammation caused by the teeth breaking through the gum line. The gums may become inflamed as the tooth prepares to erupt, which can cause discomfort, soreness, and a need to chew or bite for relief.
Amber teething necklaces have gained popularity among parents looking for holistic remedies to ease teething pain—but are the claims behind them backed by science?
Supposed Benefits of Succinic Acid
Proponents of amber teething necklaces claim that Baltic amber contains succinic acid, a naturally occurring compound said to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and immune-boosting properties.
Lack of Clinical Evidence Supporting Effectiveness
To date, no reputable clinical studies have demonstrated that amber teething necklaces actually release succinic acid in measurable amounts through body heat—or that the acid can be absorbed transdermally (through the skin) in a way that would have any therapeutic effect on teething symptoms.
Scientific Reviews and Expert Opinions
Pediatricians, toxicologists, and consumer safety groups have repeatedly warned parents about the lack of scientific validity behind amber teething necklaces. Organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Health Canada have cautioned against their use—not just because of questionable efficacy, but due to the safety risks (which we’ll explore in the next section).
Choking and Strangulation Hazards
The most alarming risks associated with teething necklaces are strangulation and choking:
- Strangulation risk occurs when a necklace gets caught on an object like a crib rail, car seat strap, or a parent’s clothing, cutting off the baby’s airflow. Babies lack the coordination to free themselves in such situations, which can quickly become fatal.
- Choking hazard arises if the necklace breaks and a bead becomes loose. A curious baby might put the bead in their mouth, nose, or airway, leading to serious injury or death.
FDA Warnings and Health Canada Advisories
In 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a public warning against the use of amber teething necklaces and similar jewelry for infants and toddlers.
Health Canada has also issued similar advisories, warning that such products pose "potentially fatal risks." They’ve advised parents to avoid putting any jewelry—including teething necklaces—on babies for any reason, including teething relief or sensory stimulation.
Cases of Injury or Fatal Incidents
Sadly, real-world cases underscore these dangers:
- In one widely reported incident, an 18-month-old child died of strangulation while napping with an amber teething necklace on at daycare.
- Other reports have documented near-strangulation incidents where caregivers intervened just in time, as well as cases where loose beads were found in babies’ mouths, posing a choking risk.
Pediatrician-Approved Options (Teething Rings, Cold Compresses)
The most recommended remedies for teething pain are simple, safe, and supported by medical professionals:
- Chilled (not frozen) Teething Rings: These are made from baby-safe materials and can be placed in the refrigerator to provide gentle cooling relief on sore gums. Avoid freezing them solid, as this can harm the baby’s delicate gums.
- Cold Washcloths: A clean, damp washcloth chilled in the fridge can be given to the baby to chew on. The texture and coolness offer both sensory and soothing benefits.
- Silicone Teething Toys: These come in various shapes and textures to help massage sore gums. Look for BPA-free options labeled specifically for infants.
- Gum Massage: Using a clean finger, gently rubbing your baby’s gums can provide temporary relief by applying light pressure to the inflamed area.
Oral Care Tips During Early Baby Teeth Stages
Even before baby teeth are fully visible, establishing good oral hygiene habits is key:
- Wipe baby’s gums daily with a soft, damp cloth to remove bacteria.
- Once teeth emerge, brush with a soft-bristled baby toothbrush and a smear (rice-sized amount) of fluoride toothpaste.
- Avoid sugary drinks or prolonged bottle use, especially at bedtime, to prevent early tooth decay.
Natural Yet Safe Alternatives Parents Can Try
If you're looking for natural solutions, consider the following safe options:
- Chilled Fruit in a Mesh Feeder: For babies who’ve started solids, cold fruits like bananas or strawberries placed in a baby-safe mesh feeder can offer both nutrition and gum relief.
- Breastfeeding: Nursing can be soothing for teething babies, providing comfort and helping them cope with pain.
- Chamomile Teething Gels or Homeopathic Drops: Some parents use these with pediatrician approval. However, always check ingredients and safety guidelines, as not all natural products are created equal.
Professional Stance on Teething Necklaces
Leading health authorities, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Health Canada, strongly discourage the use of teething necklaces—especially amber ones.
Pediatric dentists also echo this stance. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), there is no clinical justification for using teething necklaces and a clear consensus that the risks far outweigh any unproven benefits.
Importance of Prioritizing Baby Safety Over Trends
In a social media-driven world, it’s easy for parents to be drawn to visually appealing, influencer-endorsed products like amber teething necklaces. However, popularity does not equal safety.
Parents are encouraged to rely on well-researched, evidence-based recommendations, rather than anecdotal claims.
Encouraging Safe Practices During Baby Teeth Eruption
To support babies through teething safely, dentists and doctors recommend the following best practices:
- Use approved teething toys and cold compresses instead of necklaces or jewelry.
- Begin oral hygiene routines early, even before teeth appear.
- Supervise your baby during any teething activity that involves chewing or sucking.
- Consult your pediatrician or pediatric dentist before trying any teething gels, supplements, or alternative remedies.