Amber Beads
- By Heidi Simpson (Dip)
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- 02 Mar, 2019
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Why Use Amber Beads for Teething
Although Amber beaded necklaces and bracelets are not scientifically proven to help with teething they are a natural and beautiful alternative to a plastic soother.
What is proven as a teething soother? ...
Doctors and Paediatricians recommend Amber Beads asa soother based on a cautious approach to the use of the beads. The decision to use a natural product which soothes your child is a personal one. The beads warm to the touch and release a small amount of succinic acid which soothes.
Amber is tree resin that has fossilised and become hard. It can be shaped into beads and made into jewellery. One of the chemicals in Baltic amber is succinic acid. Some people believe that succinic acid has pain-relieving or healing qualities.
Do amber teething necklaces work?
Are amber teething necklaces safe?
The chemicals in amber beads won’t harm your baby. Succinic acid is considered safe in small doses. We all have succinic acid in our bodies naturally. It can also be found in some foods and drink, and is used as a food additive in some countries.Consumer Warning:
In very large doses succinic acid is a skin and breathing irritant, and can damage the eyes. If the necklace snags on something, it could strangle your baby. Your baby can choke on the beads themselves, whether the jewellery has broken or not and if the child forms a habit of chewing the beads their teeth can be effected.
Some parents, however, feel that teething jewellery helps their babies. 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.
Talk to your child's pediatrician if you have concerns or questions about your child's health.