Chew necklaces are wearable items that serve as a sensory tool, providing a safe outlet for oral input. Made from durable, non-toxic materials like food-grade silicone, they come in various shapes, sizes, and textures.
Why People Use Chew Necklaces
Individuals use chew necklaces for various reasons. For many, including children and adults with ADHD, autism, or sensory processing disorder, chewing provides a calming effect and reduces anxiety. They can also enhance focus and attention, discreetly managing sensory input in various environments, including educational settings. They offer a safe alternative to chewing on unhygienic or damaging non-food items like clothing, pencils, or fingernails. While some are marketed for teething infants, their primary use addresses sensory needs in older individuals.
Understanding Potential Dental Concerns
While beneficial, prolonged or aggressive use of chew necklaces can introduce dental concerns. Continuous chewing, especially on harder materials or with intense pressure, may erode tooth enamel. Enamel wear can lead to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities.
Repetitive chewing can strain jaw muscles, potentially leading to discomfort or issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Symptoms include pain, clicking, or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth. Uneven pressure could contribute to minor tooth shifting, especially in developing mouths. Uncleaned necklaces can harbor bacteria, leading to gum irritation or oral infections.
Strategies for Safe Use
To minimize dental risks, select the right chew necklace. Opt for high-quality, food-grade silicone products, gentle on teeth and non-toxic. Manufacturers offer varying textures and hardness levels, from soft to very firm; choose appropriate toughness to prevent excessive tooth wear. Designs that distribute pressure evenly across teeth are also beneficial.
Regular cleaning prevents bacterial buildup and maintains hygiene. Most silicone necklaces can be washed with soap and warm water, placed on a dishwasher’s top rack, or boiled for sterilization. Observe chewing habits; if chewing becomes aggressive or focused on one area, adjustments or a different product may be necessary.
Rotating between multiple necklaces or taking breaks can prevent overuse of specific teeth or jaw muscles. Ensure the chosen necklace is age-appropriate and features safety mechanisms like a breakaway clasp.
Knowing When to Seek Professional Guidance
Recognize when chewing habits impact oral health and seek professional dental guidance. If you experience persistent tooth sensitivity, pain when chewing, or visible tooth wear, a dental examination is advisable. Changes in your bite or signs of gum irritation, like redness or swelling, also warrant a dentist visit.
Ongoing jaw pain, clicking, or TMJ discomfort should prompt a dental professional consultation. These symptoms indicate underlying issues requiring diagnosis and treatment. If a chew necklace no longer provides sensory relief or contributes to problematic chewing, discuss alternative strategies with an occupational therapist or behavioral specialist.