Amber teething necklaces are often marketed as a gentle, natural way to ease teething discomfort. For an exhausted parent, the promise is appealing—but “natural” does not automatically mean safe, especially when a product is worn around a baby’s neck.
Amber teething necklaces are not recommended for babies. There is no reliable scientific evidence that amber releases enough succinic acid through the skin to relieve teething pain, while necklaces create preventable risks of strangulation, choking, and aspiration. Safer options include a clean finger gum massage or a firm, baby-safe teething ring. 1 2 3
Understanding the Science
Amber is fossilized tree resin. Supporters of amber teething jewelry commonly claim that body heat causes the beads to release succinic acid, a substance said to have anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving effects.
The problem is that this mechanism has not been demonstrated convincingly in babies. A review of the evidence found no scientific support for meaningful transdermal absorption of succinic acid—or for the safety and effectiveness of amber teething necklaces. 1 Health Canada has also stated that it does not recommend necklaces to prevent or reduce teething pain. 4
That does not mean every baby who wears one will be harmed. It means the proposed benefit is unproven, while the design creates risks that are well recognized by safety authorities.
Why Amber Necklaces Can Be Dangerous
Strangulation
A necklace can catch on a crib rail, hook, furniture, or another object and tighten around a baby’s neck. This can happen quickly and may occur during sleep, when an adult is not watching.
The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend that infants wear jewelry, and Health Canada warns against placing necklaces, strings, ribbons, or chains around the neck of a child under three. 2 4
Choking and aspiration
Amber beads can break away from the string. A baby may place a loose bead in their mouth, creating a choking hazard. A broken strand can also allow several small pieces to become accessible at once.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has received reports of choking, serious injuries, and deaths associated with teething jewelry, including amber necklaces. 3
“Supervision” does not remove the risk
Parents sometimes hear that a necklace is acceptable if the baby is supervised or wears it only while awake. However, supervision cannot reliably prevent a sudden entanglement or choking event. A necklace can also be forgotten during a nap or accidentally left within reach.
Moving an amber necklace to a wrist or ankle may reduce neck entanglement but does not eliminate choking risk if the jewelry breaks. The safest choice is not to use teething jewelry on or around a baby.
Safer Ways to Soothe Teething
Teething can cause sore, swollen gums, drooling, and a strong desire to chew. These symptoms are usually manageable with simple measures:
- Gently massage the gums with a clean finger.
- Offer a firm, baby-safe teething ring that is too large to fit fully in the mouth.
- Follow the product instructions for cleaning and inspect teething toys regularly for cracks, tears, or loose pieces.
- Offer cool—not frozen—teething items if your baby finds them soothing. Very hard or frozen objects can injure sensitive gums.
- Use medication only when appropriate for your baby’s age and weight, and ask a pediatrician or pharmacist for dosing guidance.
- Avoid numbing products containing benzocaine unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional; some topical teething products can be unsafe for infants.
- Never use necklaces, bracelets, cords, or teething jewelry as chew toys.
Fever, diarrhea, a spreading rash, breathing difficulty, or marked lethargy should not automatically be blamed on teething. Contact your child’s healthcare professional if symptoms seem unusual or your baby appears significantly unwell.
How to Evaluate “Natural” Baby Products
Marketing terms such as natural, chemical-free, non-toxic, and holistic do not tell you whether a product is safe for a particular age or use. For baby products, consider:
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Is the product intended to be worn, chewed, or swallowed? | Each use creates different hazards. |
| Can it break into small pieces? | Small parts may cause choking or aspiration. |
| Does it have cords, loops, or strings? | These can create entanglement or strangulation risks. |
| Is the benefit supported by clinical evidence? | Traditional use and testimonials are not proof of effectiveness. |
| Does the label include age guidance and warnings? | Babies have different developmental abilities and safety needs. |
For more information about risks from baby products and ingredients, you may also find our guides on phthalates in plastic toys, plastic-free toddler mealtime products, and contact dermatitis in babies useful.
Duckie’s Verdict: Is it safe?
Caution—avoid for babies.
Amber teething necklaces offer no well-established teething benefit and introduce avoidable hazards, particularly strangulation and choking. The FDA, American Academy of Pediatrics, and Health Canada guidance supports choosing safer, non-wearable teething options instead. 2 3 4
If your baby already has an amber necklace, remove it from the child’s neck and store it completely out of reach—or discontinue it. You do not need to feel guilty for considering one; these products are marketed persuasively. Choosing a safer alternative is a practical, evidence-informed decision.
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FAQ
Are amber teething necklaces effective?
There is no reliable scientific evidence that amber necklaces relieve teething pain by releasing succinic acid through a baby’s skin. Health authorities recommend safer alternatives instead. 1 4
Can babies sleep while wearing amber necklaces?
No. Babies should not sleep wearing amber necklaces or any jewelry. A necklace can catch on nearby objects or tighten around the neck during sleep. 2 3
Is amber safer than silicone or wooden teething jewelry?
Changing the material does not remove the main risks. Any wearable teething jewelry can break into small pieces or become a strangulation hazard. A one-piece, firm teething ring designed for infants is safer.
What can I use instead of an amber teething necklace?
Try gentle gum massage with a clean finger or a firm, baby-safe teething ring. Ask your healthcare professional before giving medication for teething discomfort. 3
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How this article was made
This article was prepared with AI assistance and edited by Duckie. Sources are listed with the article, but source quality can vary. It has not been medically reviewed unless a named clinician reviewer is shown. Please verify health decisions with a qualified professional.
Medical disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your child.
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