Parents of teething infants sometimes rely on amber teething necklaces to provide pain relief for their baby and to keep them from fussing. Unfortunately, most children's dentists do not recommend this solution. Although amber looks like a gemstone, it is in fact fossilized tree resin. It prevents numerous problems and safety issues, and below you'll learn what these are and discover safer alternatives to amber teething jewelry.

What Are the Problems?

This method gained popularity because amber contains succinic acid, which when absorbed by the body soothes aching teeth and gums. Many parents mistakenly allow their child to teethe on the amber, when in fact the jewelry is designed to be worn around the neck so that, when heated to body temperature, the baby's body can absorb the succinic acid. 

However, there is no evidence that this occurs. In fact, the necklace can present a strangling hazard. Moreover, teething on the amber can pose a choking threat. Thus, not only have they not been shown to be effective, they could prove dangerous. Other alternatives are preferable.

What Are the Safer Alternatives?

Children's dentists often recommend cold items for pain relief. For instance, homespun remedies like a frozen, damp washcloth have proven effective for decades. So have commercial items like a partially-frozen teething ring. 

In terms of medicine, Infant Tylenol, Infant Advil, and baby aspirin are all effective at soothing minor tooth pain. Another option is to rub the surface of the baby's gums with a finger or a firm, plastic teething toy. All of these help soothe pain without the inherent risks of an amber necklace.

If you need a children's dentist you can trust with your child's oral health, contact Carolyn B. Crowell, DMD, & Associates, the premier pediatric dentist in Avon, OH. She and her team serve patients throughout Lorain County and the Greater Cleveland area. They specialize in tooth fillings, sedation and laser dentistry, and braces. They are renowned throughout the region for their compassionate care, friendly staff, and relaxing environment. Learn more about them on their website or call (440) 934-0149 or make an appointment with a children's dentist.