It is difficult for parents to see their children go through teething pain. Amber teething bracelets have become increasingly popular as an alternative form of treatment for teething pain. However,  you may  be wondering if there are safe or effective.

According the American Academy of Pediatrics, a world-renowned  leader and pioneer in the field of integrative medicines says these necklaces are not supported by modern science.

Retailer claims  that when the necklaces  are  warmed by the baby’s body, it releases a pain relieving substance  that is then absorbed into the skin into the blood stream. They also claim that it stimulates the thyroid gland  to improve the ability of the  immune system to reduce inflammation  in the ears,throat , stomach and respiratory system. However there is  recently no scientific evidence to back this claim.

Why these amber teething bracelets may not be safe

They increase the risk of strangulation and choking. These may occur when the bracelet is worn around a child’s neck unsupervised  such as during sleep. The child can also break the necklace and swallow the beads.

The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend that infants wear any jewelry.  Suffocation is the leading source of death for children under a year old. It is also among the top 5 causes of death in children between the ages 1 and 4.

However parents who choose the necklaces are advised to follow tips :

• your child needs to be supervises always when she is wearing the  bracelet or necklace
• let your child wear the necklace on the wrist or ankle  and not around her neck
• dont let your child sleep (day or night )  with the bracelet or necklace
• remove the necklace or bracelet when your child is unattended to  even if for a short while
• talk to your child’s  doctor if you have any concerns about her health
• you can also consider alternative teething pain relief such as
  • chew toys
  • a light, gentle massage on the sore areas
  • cold things such as damp wash cloths that have been twisted and frozen
  • if your baby is really having a tough time,ask your pediatrician for pain relievers such as acetaminophen