For some babies teething can be very uncomfortable. And while there are all sorts of remedies to help them with the pain of those first teeth appearing, there's one that parents are being urged to avoid.
Taking to the CPR Kids Instagram page, paediatric nurse and mum Sarah Hunstead has warned against using amber teething necklaces.
She highlighted a viral TikTok video of a mum who revealed the shocking reality of using the necklace.
In the video (below), Danielle Morin revealed her son Deacon was strangled after the amber necklace got caught around his neck. He'd been found unconscious at his nursery in 2016 and tragically died five days later.
On the video Danielle, who has since been raising awareness of the dangers of amber teething necklaces, said:
'Know better, do better! Child safety isn’t a parenting choice, it’s a duty.'
Nurse Sarah advised parents do their research when it comes to teething products.
She said:
'Firstly and most importantly, it is vital that you consider alternate forms of pain relief.'
But if you do still decide to use an amber necklace, said to contain a chemical that helps soothe a baby's swollen gums. Sarah recommends watching your baby while they are using it.
Remove the necklace or bracelet when your little one is sleeping and don't let them chew the amber necklace or bracelet.
What should I use instead?
There are many products available to help little ones with teething issues. Chewing is thought to ease discomfort, so teething toys can be a good idea if they are properly sterilised.
Experts say that massaging your baby's gums can help.
Do you have any teething tips? Talk to other parents in our forum.
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