Critical Safety Warning: The Dangers of Teething Jewelry
When it comes to your child’s health, safety always comes first. As parents seek natural remedies for teething discomfort, one trend has gained popularity in recent years: teething jewelry. These necklaces and bracelets—often made of amber, silicone, marble, or wood—may seem like a helpful solution, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a serious warning about the potential risks involved.
At Wilhite Plano Dentist, we believe in empowering parents with accurate information to make safe decisions for their families. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Teething Jewelry?
Teething jewelry includes items like teething necklaces and bracelets marketed to soothe babies’ sore gums during teething. These products are often worn by infants or by parents for the baby to chew on. While the idea may sound appealing, these items are not approved by dental professionals or health authorities for teething relief.
FDA Safety Warning: What Parents Need to Know
The FDA issued an official warning urging parents and caregivers to avoid the use of teething necklaces and bracelets. The reason? These products pose serious safety risks including:
- Strangulation: Babies and toddlers can be strangled if the necklace becomes wrapped too tightly around the neck.
- Choking: Small beads or pieces can break off and become a choking hazard if swallowed.
- Infection and Mouth Injuries: Many teething products are not made with medical-grade materials, increasing the risk of oral irritation or infection.
In one tragic case, an 18-month-old child strangled to death while wearing an amber teething necklace during a nap. The risks are real—and preventable.
Are Silicone and Wooden Teething Necklaces Safe?
Even alternatives like silicone or wooden teething jewelry are not recommended by the FDA or pediatric dentists. While they may seem safer than amber, the risk of choking and oral injury still remains.
Moreover, these items are often difficult to sanitize properly, making them a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and other harmful microorganisms.
Dentist-Approved Teething Relief Options
Rather than relying on jewelry, consider safe, dentist-recommended teething remedies that effectively reduce discomfort and avoid dangerous complications:
- Cold Teething Rings: Store-bought teething rings made of soft, BPA-free materials can be chilled (not frozen) to provide soothing relief.
- Gently Massaging Gums: Use a clean finger or moist gauze pad to gently rub your baby’s gums.
- Pain Relievers: With your pediatrician’s guidance, over-the-counter pain relievers like infant acetaminophen can be used for severe discomfort.
Always consult with your child’s pediatrician or dentist before trying new teething solutions.
Protecting Your Child’s Oral Development
As part of your baby’s early oral care, it’s important to begin dental checkups as early as the first tooth or by age one. Early visits help us monitor development, detect potential problems, and guide parents on safe practices.
At Wilhite Plano Dentist, we provide comprehensive pediatric dental care that focuses on prevention, education, and long-term oral health.
Schedule a Consultation with a Trusted Pediatric Dentist
If you have questions or concerns about your child’s teething process, we’re here to help. Dr. David Wilhite brings over 30 years of experience in family and pediatric dentistry. Our team can recommend safe, effective solutions for your child’s oral care needs.
Visit us at: 5936 W Parker Rd #1000, Plano, TX 75093 Call: (972) 964-3774 Or contact us online
