When parents see their baby suffering, they just want a solution. Teething necklaces and beads have become an increasingly 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 receiving 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.
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.
Approved ways to help with teething include teething chew toys, frozen washcloths, cold foods, gum massage, and Tylenol (if approved by your pediatrician).