Are teething necklaces and beads safe for babies. What are the risks associated with using teething jewelry. How can parents safely soothe their teething baby. What does the FDA say about teething necklaces. What alternative teething remedies are recommended by pediatricians.

The Rising Popularity and Dangers of Teething Jewelry

Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents. As infants experience discomfort from emerging teeth, caregivers often seek solutions to alleviate their little ones’ pain. In recent years, teething necklaces and beads have gained popularity as an alternative treatment for teething discomfort. However, these trendy accessories come with significant safety concerns that parents must be aware of.

Teething jewelry typically consists of necklaces or bracelets made from materials such as amber, wood, marble, or silicone. Proponents claim these items can relieve teething pain and provide sensory stimulation for children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Despite their growing popularity, it’s crucial to understand that these products pose serious risks to infants and young children.

FDA Warning on Teething Jewelry

In December 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an official warning regarding teething necklaces and beads. This alert came in response to reports of children choking on beads that had broken off from these accessories. Even more alarmingly, an 18-month-old child tragically died from strangulation by an amber teething necklace during a nap. These incidents highlight the potential dangers associated with teething jewelry.

Debunking the Claims: Do Teething Necklaces Really Work?

Despite the widespread marketing of teething necklaces and beads, there is a notable lack of scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness. Dr. Andrew Weil, a renowned leader in integrative medicine, has stated that the use of these necklaces is not supported by modern science.

Retailers often make claims about the supposed benefits of amber teething necklaces. They suggest that when warmed by the baby’s body temperature, the amber releases a pain-relieving substance that is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. Some promoters even assert that these necklaces can stimulate the thyroid gland to control drooling and enhance the immune system’s ability to reduce inflammation in various parts of the body.

However, it’s important to note that there is currently no scientific research or evidence to substantiate these claims. Parents should approach such marketing assertions with skepticism and prioritize their child’s safety above unproven remedies.

Understanding the Risks: Choking and Strangulation Hazards

The dangers associated with teething necklaces and beads are twofold, as explained by pediatrician Natasha Burgert, MD, FAAP: “The risk is two-fold — strangulation and choking.” These hazards are particularly concerning when the necklaces are worn around a child’s neck, especially during unsupervised periods such as sleep.

Choking can occur if the necklace breaks and the child swallows the beads. Strangulation is a risk when the necklace is worn around the neck, particularly during sleep or naps. It’s crucial to understand that these risks extend beyond teething necklaces to all forms of jewelry worn by infants.

AAP Recommendations on Infant Jewelry

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) takes a firm stance on this issue, recommending that infants should not wear any jewelry. This recommendation is based on the sobering fact that suffocation is the leading cause of death for children under one year old and remains among the top five causes of death for children between the ages of 1 and 4.

Safety Precautions for Parents Using Teething Jewelry

While the safest option is to avoid teething jewelry altogether, some parents may still choose to use these products. For those who do, it’s crucial to follow strict safety guidelines to minimize risks:

• Always supervise your child when they are wearing the necklace or bracelet.
• Have your child wear the necklace on a wrist or ankle instead of around the neck.
• Remove the necklace or bracelet when your child is unattended, even for short periods.
• Never allow your child to wear the jewelry while sleeping, whether for naps or nighttime.
• Consider using alternative forms of teething pain relief (discussed below).
• Consult your child’s pediatrician if you have concerns or questions about your child’s health.
• Report any adverse events related to teething jewelry to the FDA’s MedWatch program.

Safe and Effective Alternatives for Teething Relief

Fortunately, there are numerous safe and effective ways to soothe a teething baby without resorting to potentially dangerous jewelry. Here are some pediatrician-approved methods to alleviate teething discomfort:

Chew Toys

Plastic and rubber toys designed specifically for teething can provide safe relief for your baby’s sore gums. These toys are made from materials that are safe for chewing and can help massage the gums, providing comfort to your teething infant.

Cold Therapy

Cold items can help numb the gums and reduce inflammation, offering relief to your teething baby. Try using a damp washcloth that has been twisted and frozen. For added gnawing satisfaction, you can tie one end of the washcloth in a knot. It’s important to note that while cold items can be soothing, you should avoid using teething rings that are frozen solid, as these can be too hard for your baby’s sensitive mouth.

Gentle Massage

A light, gentle massage can provide significant relief for your teething baby. Before massaging, ensure that you wash your hands thoroughly. Then, use your clean finger or knuckle to gently rub the sore areas in your baby’s mouth. This can help alleviate discomfort and provide a soothing sensation for your little one.

Safe Medications

When your baby is experiencing severe teething discomfort, consult with your pediatrician about using over-the-counter pain relievers. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be recommended in appropriate doses to help manage pain and discomfort associated with teething.

It’s crucial to note that numbing gels or creams containing benzocaine are not recommended for infants due to potential side effects and safety concerns.

The Importance of Evidence-Based Teething Remedies

As parents navigate the challenging teething period, it’s essential to rely on evidence-based methods for pain relief. While the allure of trendy solutions like teething necklaces may be strong, the potential risks far outweigh any unproven benefits. By focusing on safe, pediatrician-approved remedies, parents can effectively soothe their teething babies without compromising safety.

Consulting with Healthcare Professionals

When in doubt about teething remedies or your baby’s oral health, it’s always best to consult with your pediatrician or a pediatric dentist. These healthcare professionals can provide personalized advice based on your child’s specific needs and developmental stage.

Recognizing the Signs of Teething

Understanding when your baby is teething can help you provide timely relief and avoid unnecessary worry. While the teething process can vary from child to child, there are some common signs to watch for:

• Increased drooling
• Irritability or fussiness
• Swollen or tender gums
• Slight increase in body temperature (not a fever)
• Chewing on objects more frequently
• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns

It’s important to note that contrary to popular belief, teething does not cause high fevers, diarrhea, or severe illness. If your baby experiences these symptoms, consult your pediatrician as they may be signs of a different health issue.

The Teething Timeline: What to Expect

While every baby is unique, there is a general timeline for teething that parents can use as a guide. Understanding this timeline can help you anticipate when your baby might start experiencing teething discomfort and when to expect the emergence of different teeth.

1. Bottom front teeth (central incisors): Usually appear between 6-10 months
2. Top front teeth (central incisors): Typically emerge between 8-12 months
3. Top lateral incisors: Often appear between 9-13 months
4. Bottom lateral incisors: Usually come in between 10-16 months
5. First molars: Typically emerge between 13-19 months
6. Canine teeth: Often appear between 16-22 months
7. Second molars: Usually come in between 23-33 months

Remember that this timeline is just a general guide. Some babies may start teething earlier or later, and the order in which teeth appear can vary. If you have concerns about your baby’s dental development, don’t hesitate to consult with your pediatrician or a pediatric dentist.

Promoting Overall Oral Health During Teething

While managing teething discomfort is important, it’s equally crucial to establish good oral hygiene habits early on. Here are some tips for promoting your baby’s oral health during the teething period and beyond:

• Begin cleaning your baby’s gums before teeth emerge using a soft, damp cloth after feedings.
• Once teeth appear, start brushing twice daily with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a rice-grain sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
• Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle, as this can lead to tooth decay.
• Limit sugary foods and drinks, which can contribute to cavities.
• Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth emerging.

By focusing on these preventive measures, you can help ensure that your baby’s emerging teeth remain healthy and strong.

The Role of Nutrition in Teething and Dental Health

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in your baby’s overall health, including their dental development. During the teething period, ensure that your baby is receiving a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D are particularly important for strong teeth and bones.

As your baby transitions to solid foods, offer a variety of nutritious options that support dental health. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots can help clean teeth naturally, while dairy products provide calcium for strong enamel. Always supervise your baby during meals and cut foods into appropriate sizes to prevent choking hazards.

Addressing Common Teething Myths and Misconceptions

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding teething that can lead to unnecessary worry or potentially harmful practices. Let’s address some of these common misconceptions:

Myth: Teething Causes High Fevers

While teething may cause a slight increase in body temperature, it does not cause high fevers. If your baby has a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C), it’s likely due to an illness unrelated to teething and warrants a call to your pediatrician.

Myth: Teething Causes Severe Diarrhea

Teething does not cause severe diarrhea. While some babies may experience looser stools due to increased saliva production, persistent or severe diarrhea is not a symptom of teething and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Myth: Amber Necklaces Release Pain-Relieving Substances

As discussed earlier, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that amber necklaces release pain-relieving substances when worn. The risks associated with these necklaces outweigh any potential benefits.

Myth: Cutting Gums to Help Teeth Emerge

Some cultures practice cutting or lancing a baby’s gums to help teeth emerge. This is not only unnecessary but can be dangerous, potentially leading to infection or injury. Teeth will emerge naturally without such intervention.

By understanding and dispelling these myths, parents can focus on safe, evidence-based methods for managing teething discomfort and promoting their baby’s oral health.

When to Seek Professional Help for Teething Issues

While teething is a normal part of a baby’s development, there are situations where professional medical advice should be sought. Here are some instances when you should consult your pediatrician or a pediatric dentist:

• If your baby seems to be in severe pain that isn’t relieved by typical teething remedies
• If teething appears to be significantly delayed (no teeth by 18 months)
• If teeth emerge in an unusual order or appear misaligned
• If you notice signs of tooth decay, such as discoloration or pitting in the teeth
• If your baby develops a fever, rash, or other symptoms that seem unrelated to teething
• If you have concerns about your baby’s overall oral development

Remember, every child is unique, and what’s normal can vary. However, if you have any doubts or concerns about your baby’s teething process or oral health, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice.

The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups

Establishing a routine of regular dental check-ups from an early age is crucial for maintaining your child’s oral health. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth emerging.

These early visits serve several important purposes:

• They allow the dentist to check for proper oral development and early signs of decay
• They provide an opportunity for parents to learn about proper oral care techniques
• They help children become comfortable with dental visits from a young age, reducing anxiety in the future
• They allow for early intervention if any issues are detected

By prioritizing these check-ups, you’re setting the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health for your child.

Preparing for the Teething Journey: Tips for Parents

As you navigate your baby’s teething journey, being prepared can make the process smoother for both you and your little one. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

• Stock up on safe teething toys and cold compresses before teething begins
• Learn to recognize the signs of teething so you can provide timely relief
• Establish a good oral hygiene routine early, even before teeth emerge
• Be patient and understanding – teething can be uncomfortable for babies and may lead to temporary changes in behavior
• Ensure you’re getting adequate rest and support, as caring for a teething baby can be challenging
• Keep a record of when teeth emerge to share with your pediatrician or dentist
• Educate other caregivers about safe teething practices and the risks of teething jewelry

Remember, the teething phase is temporary. With patience, care, and the right approaches, you can help your baby through this developmental milestone safely and comfortably.

The Role of Consistency in Teething Management

Consistency is key when managing teething discomfort. Establish a routine of regular gum massage, offering appropriate teething toys, and maintaining good oral hygiene. This consistency not only helps alleviate discomfort but also creates a sense of predictability for your baby during a potentially unsettling time.

Teething Necklaces and Beads: A Caution for Parents

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Ages & Stages

Ages & Stages

​​​​​When parents see their baby suffering, they just want a solution. Teething necklaces and beads have become an increasing popular alternative treatment to ease
teething pain.
But, are they effective and safe? The answer is no.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released an

official warning in December 2018 after recieving reports of children choking on beads that break off and an 18-month-old being strangled to death by an amber necklace during a nap.

Why These Teething Necklaces and Beads are Choking and Strangulation Hazards:

“The risk is two-fold — strangulation and
choking,” said pediatrician Natasha Burgert, MD, FAAP. It occurs when the necklaces are worn around a child’s neck, especially when unsupervised (such as while sleeping) or if the child were to break the necklace and swallow the beads. However, those risks are not only for these teething necklaces.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) does not recommend that infants wear any jewelry. Suffocation is the leading cause of death for children under a year old and among the top five causes of death for children between the ages of 1 and 4.

Parents who choose to use these necklaces are advised to:

• Always supervise your child when he or she is wearing the necklace or bracelet.

• Have your child wear the necklace on a wrist or ankle and not around his or her neck.

• Remember to remove the necklace or bracelet when your child is unattended, even if it is only for a short period of time!

• Remove the necklace or bracelet while your child is sleeping (day or night).

• Consider using alternate forms of teething pain relief (see suggestions below).

• Talk to your child’s pediatrician if you have concerns or questions about your child’s health.

Safer Ways to Soothe a Teething Baby:

There are many teething-pain relievers that can soothe your baby’s sore gums safely. Here are a few worth trying:

• 
  Chew toys. Plastic and rubber toys are great for soothing aching gums.

• 
  Cold things. For help numbing and easing the ache and inflammation, try using damp washcloths that have been twisted and frozen (tie one end in a knot for better gnawing). Avoid teething rings that are frozen solid; they are too hard for children’s mouths.

• 
  Massage.  A light, gentle rub or massage might give your little one a lot of relief. Remember to wash your hands, then massage the sore areas in your baby’s mouth with your finger or knuckle.

• 
  Medicine. When your baby is having a really tough time, ask your pediatrician about giving a dose of acetaminophen (Tylenol).
  Note: Numbing gels or creams that contain benzocaine are not recommended for infants.

Additional Information:

• 
  Baby Teething Pain

• 
  Baby’s First Tooth: 7 Facts Parents Should Know

• 
  Teething: 4 to 7 Months

• 
  How to Help Teething Symptoms without Medications

• 
  Prevention of Choking Among Children (AAP Policy Statement)

• To review recalls and safety information, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC) website.  ​

​​

​​​

Last Updated

12/20/2018

Source

American Academy of Pediatrics (Copyright © 2018)

The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.

Fluoride for Children: FAQs – HealthyChildren.org

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Healthy Living

Healthy Living

​Fluoride from drinking
water and other sources like toothpaste and mouth rinse can help prevent
tooth decay (dental caries for cavities) and make your child’s teeth stronger.

Here are some common questions parents ask about how fluoride helps protect children’s oral health.

Q: Why do children need fluoride?​

A: Fluoride is a natural mineral that can slow or stop cavities from forming. Bacteria in the mouth combine with sugars and make acid that can harm the outer layer of the tooth (enamel). Fluoride protects teeth from damage and helps rebuild the enamel. Many communities have added fluoride to the tap water to help fight cavities. Children should drink plenty of water and brush with toothpaste that has fluoride in it.

Q: Is fluoridated water safe for my children?

A: Yes. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Dental Association, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention agree that
water fluoridation is safe and works to
prevent tooth decay. Community water fluoridation has been shown to reduce tooth decay by 25%.

Q: When should my child start using fluoride toothpaste?

A: The AAP recommends using a “smear” of fluoride toothpaste twice a day when the first tooth appears and until age 3. Once your child has turned 3, a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste can be used.

Q: What if we live in a community where the water is not fluoridated? What can we do?

A: Check with your local water utility agency to
find out if your water has fluoride in it. If it doesn’t or you have well water, ask your pediatrician or dentist if your child is at high risk for cavities. The doctor may recommend you buy fluoridated water or give you a prescription for fluoride drops or tablets for your child.

Q: Should my child get fluoride varnish?

A: Yes.
Fluoride varnish is used to help prevent or slow down tooth decay. Your pediatrician will apply the varnish starting when your baby is 6 months old at
well-child visits. It is painted on the top and sides of each tooth and hardens quickly. Then, it is brushed off after 4 to 12 hours. It is recommended that children have varnish applied 2 to 4 times per year until they are 5 years old.

Q: What should I know about fluoride if I am breastfeeding or using infant formula?

A: When they are younger than 6 months old,
breastfed babies and babies fed infant formula do not need fluoride supplements or formula mixed with water than is fluoridated. It is safe to use fluoridated water to
mix the formula if your baby is younger than 6 months old, but there is a small risk of “fluorosis.” (See more details, below.) Ask your pediatrician or
dentist if you need more advice.

If you prefer not to use fluoridated water with formula before your baby’s first tooth emerges, you can:

Q: What is dental fluorosis, and will fluoridated water mixed with infant formula increase the risk?

A: Fluorosis usually appears as very faint white streaks on the teeth. Often it is only noticeable by a dental expert during an exam. Mild fluorosis is not painful and does not affect the function or health of the teeth.

Although using fluoridated water to prepare infant formula might increase the risk of dental fluorosis, most cases are mild.

Once your child’s adult teeth come in (usually around age 8), the risk of developing fluorosis is over.

More Information

• 
  Good Oral Health Starts Early​
• 
  Fluoride a Powerful Tooth to Prevent Tooth Decay​

Last Updated

11/30/2020

Source

American Academy of Pediatrics (Copyright © 2020)

The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.

Graph of teething in children, signs of teething in infants

The birth of the first child is associated with a lot of unknown for young parents, so many new things await them ahead. Of course, parents are worried about the baby growing and developing properly. Gradually, the baby goes through important stages: he begins to smile, roll over from his back to his side, sleep without waking up all night. Another significant event that parents are looking forward to is the appearance of the first tooth. Parents are concerned about the question: “When do children start teething?”

Signs appearance teeth

You will notice this by the behavior and condition of the child. When teething, the child pulls everything into his mouth to scratch his gums. His salivation increases, his appetite worsens, and his gums swell. The baby is naughty and sleeps restlessly.

If your child has a fever and/or diarrhoea, you should make an appointment with the pediatrician. These symptoms cannot be attributed to mild malaise during teething. Remember that the child’s immunity is just beginning to develop at this age. Babies put all toys and objects, clean or dirty, into their mouths, so they are at risk of contracting bacteria and viruses.

How to help baby relieve pain

Pediatric dentists have developed a number of tips and tricks to help relieve pain and discomfort in babies. Current medicine does not recommend applying topical anesthetic gels and liquids to the gums due to the risk of toxicity in children 2 years of age and younger. Another outdated remedy recognized as harmful to the teeth is to dip the nipple in sugar or honey.

Don’t worry, there are many simple and harmless ways to make your child’s life easier. Try giving him a clean, durable teether or a chilled nipple. Store spare teethers in the freezer so you always have them on hand. Cold foods, such as ice cream and frozen fruit, are good for helping to combat unpleasant symptoms if the child can already eat them. Gently massaging your gums will help relieve the pain. If the pain is severe, see your pediatrician who can recommend an over-the-counter medicine for babies. Be careful and notice which way works best for the child.

Schedule eruption teeth

Noticing increased salivation, parents immediately begin to look for the first tooth in the child’s mouth. The two central incisors of the bottom row appear first when the baby is about 6 months old. However, no two children are the same; The first tooth may appear at 5 months or at 12 months. So, the correct answer to the question “when children start teething” is: “any time they want.”

After the first teeth appear, on schedule or off schedule, you are wondering when to expect the next ones. The top two central teeth erupt at about age 9up to 13 months. Between the ages of 13 and 16 months, many babies have four front teeth at the bottom and four at the top. The remaining milk teeth, lateral incisors and molars, should erupt by the age of 2 to 3 years. It’s a long process, but when it’s over, the baby will have 20 milk teeth!

Important Role Baby Teeth

Some parents feel that baby teeth are not very important because they will eventually be replaced by permanent teeth. However, that is why it is necessary to take care of baby teeth! They not only make the baby’s smile beautiful, they help him learn to speak and chew food. These 20 teeth form the necessary space for the development, growth and proper positioning of the permanent teeth.

The importance of taking care of your baby’s teeth and gums right from the start of teething cannot be overemphasized. Specialists of the Russian Medical Server consider oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist to be the best methods for preventing dental diseases. The last baby tooth will fall out in a child’s early teens, around age 12. Be patient and surround your child with care so that this difficult period passes safely.

Timing of teething – Article

Author:

Marbery Gedrean
| Checked by: Shteba Victoria Petrovna

| Last revised: October 18, 2020.

Most parents are very concerned about how teething (and gums) affects their babies in everyday life. Although we cannot fully predict exactly how each baby will react to their first tooth. However, we can learn about teething symptoms and how to soothe your baby during this difficult time. In general, the more we know about teething, the better we can help our babies get through it. Let’s figure it out.

Timing of teething

One of the most common questions parents ask is, “How long does it take for babies to teeth?”. It is useful to know both the time frame for the appearance of the first tooth and the time frame in which all teeth erupt. In general, teething is an ongoing process that occurs between the ages of 6 and 24 months. Although your baby has twenty milk teeth that will appear within two years, teething, fortunately, only causes pain and irritation at the time when the tooth is about to break through the gum. It is not known exactly how long it will take for a tooth to fully erupt, but on average experts say it can erupt within 1-7 days per tooth. However, teething symptoms usually only last a couple of days, so if a baby experiences discomfort for an extended period of time, it’s safe to assume it’s not teething.

Chronology of teething

In most babies, the first teeth are erupted at the age of 6 to 7 months, but this can happen earlier or later. Generally, your baby’s teeth are most likely to appear in the following timelines:

6-7 months

During this time, the first teeth begin to erupt. The first teeth to erupt are usually the lower central incisors, which are the two middle teeth at the bottom. Children at this age become more active. They begin to grab and pull objects towards them, transfer objects from one hand to the other, and may even begin to crawl. It’s important to keep an eye on small objects within your baby’s reach, as he’ll want to put everything in his mouth during teething!

8 to 13 months

Between 8 and 12 months your baby will have upper central incisors. In addition, sometime between 9 and 13 months they will have upper and lower teeth next to their upper central incisors (these are called lower and upper lateral incisors). In addition to teething, it is important to understand that other important milestones in gross motor development are also achieved during this developmental window. Most babies are able to sit up, stand up unassisted, take their first steps, pick up and throw objects, roll a ball, and grasp objects.

13 to 20 months

Typically, between 13 and 16 months of age, your baby’s first molars come in at about the same time. Shortly thereafter, their fangs will appear in both the top and bottom rows, between about 16 and 20 months.

From 20 to 30 months

At the final stage of teething, the back teeth or second molars appear in the bottom row of the baby. While most teething symptoms appear the same in both toddlers and babies, there are some differences as your baby grows older. First of all, your baby can now tell you about their discomfort and pain, unlike non-verbal babies. On the other hand, many toddlers will not show any signs of discomfort and will not complain of pain at all during the passage of molars. For other babies, the pain can be significantly worse because their first molars are larger than their other molars. They may even complain of a headache or jaw pain!

Toys that can help

Teethers are teething toys that help to greatly relieve the symptoms of teething in children, while keeping them occupied during play. Because teething babies are always looking for something they can chew on, teething toys are specifically designed to soothe gums and temporarily ease teething.

“6 months? But my 3 month old is teething right now!”

Some babies start teething early at 6 months – and usually it’s a little thing you don’t have to worry about!

Many babies begin to drool more often and explore their world by bringing their hand to their mouth to chew at about 3-4 months. This is completely normal and is often accompanied by teething after some time.

If you suspect that your little bundle of joy, which can be much less joyful during gum pain attacks, is teething, look for symptoms such as:

• drooling, the surest sign;
• capriciousness – unfortunately, also a frequent indicator of common childhood worries;
• slight temperature increase approx. 37.2 – 38 ° C.

The bottom two teeth usually show up first, so keep an eye on this area and be prepared to be over-the-top when they show up.

When your child has their first teeth, you can use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush.