Baltic Amber Teething Necklace Choking Hazard

Introduction

Baltic Amber teething necklaces have become a popular alternative to traditional teething remedies. Parents have been using these necklaces for centuries to help soothe their teething babies. However, there has been some concern about the safety of these necklaces. In particular, there have been worries about the risk of choking.

What are Baltic Amber Teething Necklaces?

Baltic Amber is a fossilized tree resin that is found in the Baltic region of Europe. The necklaces are made by stringing together small beads of this amber. The idea is that the warmth of the baby's skin releases an oil from the amber that contains succinic acid. This acid is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe teething pains.

Why are Baltic Amber Teething Necklaces a Choking Hazard?

The problem with Baltic Amber teething necklaces is that they can break very easily. The beads are strung together on a piece of string or elastic, and if the necklace is pulled or tugged, the string can snap. This can cause the beads to scatter, and if a baby puts one of these beads in their mouth, it can be a choking hazard.

What are the Risks?

There have been reports of babies choking on the beads from Baltic Amber teething necklaces. In some cases, the beads have become lodged in the baby's throat, making it difficult for them to breathe. In other cases, the beads have been swallowed, which can cause internal damage or choking.

How to Reduce the Risk of Choking?

If you do decide to use a Baltic Amber teething necklace, there are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of choking. Firstly, make sure that the necklace is the correct size for your baby. It should be short enough that the beads cannot reach their mouth. Secondly, supervise your baby closely when they are wearing the necklace, and remove it when they are sleeping or unsupervised. Finally, check the necklace regularly for signs of wear and tear, and replace it if necessary.

What are the Alternatives?

If you are concerned about the safety of Baltic Amber teething necklaces, there are plenty of alternative teething remedies available. These include teething rings, teething toys, and natural remedies such as chamomile tea or clove oil. You should talk to your healthcare provider to find out which remedy is best for your baby.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Baltic Amber teething necklaces may be a popular teething remedy, they do come with some risks. The risk of choking is particularly concerning, and parents should take steps to reduce this risk if they choose to use one of these necklaces. There are plenty of alternative teething remedies available, so it is always important to talk to your healthcare provider to find out which option is best for your baby.