Chew necklaces are sensory aids worn around the neck, popular among children and adults who seek oral sensory input. These items, often made of silicone, provide a socially acceptable outlet for chewing to help manage anxiety or sensory processing needs. As their use becomes more widespread, a concern naturally arises about the potential impact of repetitive chewing on dental health. This article explores the specific dental considerations and best practices for safely using chew necklaces.
The Role of Chew Necklaces in Sensory Regulation
The primary purpose of a chew necklace is to provide a safe form of self-regulation for individuals with conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder, or generalized anxiety. Chewing is a form of stimming that helps to organize the nervous system and increase focus. This oral motor input can be deeply calming, particularly during periods of stress or sensory overload.
These tools redirect an individual’s urge to chew away from potentially harmful objects. Without a safe outlet, individuals may chew on clothing, fingernails, pencils, or other non-food items that can pose choking hazards or lead to dental issues. Providing a designated chew tool gives users a functional alternative, aiding in attention and emotional management.
Understanding Potential Dental Risks
While chew necklaces are safer than many alternatives, improper or excessive use can introduce specific dental concerns. One major risk is the potential for thinning of tooth enamel, the hard, protective outer layer of the tooth. Repetitive friction against a material that is too firm or abrasive can lead to cumulative wear on the tooth surface over time.
Another area of concern is the effect on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which acts as a hinge connecting the jawbone to the skull. Excessive and prolonged chewing can place unnecessary strain on the jaw muscles and the joint itself. This strain may lead to symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), such as jaw pain, muscle fatigue, or an audible clicking or popping when opening and closing the mouth.
Chewing consistently on a foreign object can also contribute to malocclusion, which is an improper alignment of the teeth. If an individual habitually chews in the same spot, particularly in the front of the mouth during crucial developmental years, the sustained pressure may contribute to an anterior open bite. Similarly, favoring one side of the mouth for chewing can create muscular imbalances and potentially lead to a posterior crossbite or even facial asymmetry over time.
Choosing the Right Material and Design
Mitigating dental risks begins with selecting a product made from appropriate materials, such as food-grade silicone, which should be free of harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates. Reputable manufacturers often rate their products by durometer, a measure of material hardness. Softer materials are generally safer for the teeth but wear out more quickly, while firmer options are needed for more aggressive chewers.
The design of the necklace also influences how biting pressure is distributed across the teeth and jaw. Shapes that are long and slender are often preferred because they allow the user to reach the back molars, which are naturally designed to handle the most significant biting forces. Conversely, chewing mainly on the front teeth should be discouraged, as incisors are not meant to withstand heavy, repetitive pressure.
The surface texture of the chew tool is another factor to consider, as smooth designs create less friction than those with bumps or ridges. Ultimately, the chosen product should match the user’s specific chewing intensity to ensure safety and longevity. Selecting a tool that is too soft for a heavy chewer will result in frequent breakage, which then introduces a choking hazard.
Monitoring and When to Discontinue Use
Regular inspection is necessary for maintaining the safety of a chew necklace, regardless of the user’s age or chewing intensity. Before each use, the item should be checked for signs of wear, such as cracks, thinning, or pieces breaking off. Any chew necklace showing deterioration should be immediately discarded and replaced, as they pose an increased risk of choking and abrasion.
The user’s behavior and physical comfort are also important indicators that the chewing habit may need adjustment or professional intervention. If the user begins to report pain in the jaw, head, or neck, or demonstrates an audible clicking in the joint, the activity should be reduced. Consistent chewing on only one side of the mouth is a particularly important behavioral cue to address, as it can exacerbate muscle and joint imbalances.
If these behavioral or physical signs appear, it is advisable to consult a pediatric dentist or an occupational therapist. These professionals can assess the user’s oral motor needs and jaw function. They can provide guidance to determine if a change in chew tool hardness, design, or usage is necessary, ensuring the tool remains a beneficial aid rather than a source of dental or muscular strain.