| schema:text
| - Last Updated on January 3, 2025 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that Tilasmi Moti can help soothe teething discomfort in babies. Our fact check found that this claim is false.
The Claim
An Instagram post claims that Tilasmi Moti, a teething pendant made of five metals, can ease teething discomfort in babies. It also says the pendant helps prevent fever, diarrhoea, and gum swelling, balances body heat, keeps babies calm, aids digestion, and protects them from negative energies.
Fact Check
Does Tilasmi Moti ease teething discomfort?
No, not really. There is no scientific proof that wearing a Tilasmi Moti can ease teething discomfort. Teething symptoms, like gum irritation and mild pain, occur as teeth push through the gums. Experts recommend safe remedies, such as teething rings or gentle gum massages, to soothe these symptoms. The idea that a pendant can relieve pain or irritation isn’t backed by science or biology.
In fact, in December 2018, the FDA issued a warning against using teething jewellery for babies, children, and even adults with functional needs. They highlighted serious risks, including choking and strangulation, and reported cases of injuries and deaths caused by such items, including amber teething necklaces.
We spoke with Dr Snigdha, BDS, MDS, from Vananchal Dental College and Hospital, Garhwa, Jharkhand, for her expert opinion on Tilasmi Moti for teething in babies. She says, “There’s no scientific evidence to support that Tilasmi Moti helps ease teething discomfort. For safe and effective relief, it’s best to use methods like teething rings, a cool washcloth, or gentle gum massage, which are proven to provide comfort for babies.”
We reached out to Dr Pooja Sharma, BDS, MDS, NIMS Jaipur, Rajasthan, for her perspective on Tilasmi Moti for teething problems in babies. She clarifies, “Although traditional remedies like Tilasmi Moti are often used, there’s no proof they help with teething pain. It’s safer and more effective to rely on healthcare professional-recommended methods like chilled teething rings or soft, cool foods to ease your child’s discomfort.”
Can Tilasmi Moti prevent teething-related issues like fever and diarrhoea?
No, it cannot. Teething does not cause fever, diarrhoea, or other systemic symptoms. These issues are usually coincidental and unrelated to the teething process. A 2000 study found that teething in babies is linked to mild symptoms such as drooling, gum-rubbing, irritability, and a slight rise in temperature, all of which typically occur within an 8-day teething window. However, serious symptoms like high fever or illness are not caused by teething.
A 2019 study further revealed that many parents mistakenly associate teething with symptoms like fever and diarrhoea. As a result, they often turn to remedies such as necklaces, homeopathic tablets, or over-the-counter medicines. The study also highlighted that many parents are unaware that delayed tooth eruption could be a sign of underlying systemic diseases. These findings highlight the need to teach parents about teething and proper oral care to support healthy dental development and prevent unnecessary treatments.
Infections or other underlying conditions are usually responsible for these symptoms. Scientific studies do not support the idea that wearing a pendant can regulate such symptoms.
Does Tilasmi Moti balance body heat during teething?
Unlikely. The notion that Tilasmi Moti has cooling properties to manage body heat is rooted in traditional beliefs, not scientific fact. Body heat changes in babies are usually due to infections or environmental factors. There is no evidence to suggest that metals in a pendant can influence body temperature.
Does Tilasmi Moti help in digestion during teething?
No, it does not. Teething does not cause digestive problems like loose motions or loss of appetite. It is not linked to fever, diarrhoea, diaper rash, or a runny nose, nor does it make your baby more prone to illness or excessive crying. Blaming teething for fever or crying can delay treatment for serious conditions like ear infections or meningitis. Infections are more common between 6 and 12 months due to the loss of antibodies and babies’ tendency to chew on everything. These issues are more likely caused by other factors, such as dietary changes or infections. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that a pendant can affect digestion.
Can Tilasmi Moti promote calmness in babies?
Not really. While some parents may observe a placebo effect, Tilasmi Moti does not have any inherent calming properties. Restlessness or irritability during teething is best managed through soothing techniques like cuddling, using a cold teething ring, or maintaining a comforting routine.
What are some effective ways to soothe your child’s teething problems?
To soothe your child’s teething pain, gently wipe away drool with a soft cloth to prevent any rashes. Offer them something cool to chew on, like a firm rubber teething ring or a chilled apple slice, but stay away from liquid-filled teething rings or any toys that might break. You can also gently massage their gums with a cool, damp washcloth or your clean finger. If you freeze the washcloth first, make sure to wash it before using it again. For older babies, try feeding them soft, cool foods like yogurt. If your child likes using a bottle, fill it only with water, as milk or juice can contribute to tooth decay.
On a related note, there are traditional remedies like water with iron scissors claimed to treat delayed speech in children. This is yet another example of a traditional myth with no scientific evidence.
THIP Media Take
The claim that Tilasmi Moti can help soothe teething discomfort in babies is false. Parents should rely on evidence-based methods, such as teething toys, cold compresses, or paediatric advice, to address teething symptoms. While cultural practices like Tilasmi Moti may provide emotional comfort, they should not replace proven medical care for babies.
|
![[RDF Data]](/fct/images/sw-rdf-blue.png)
![[cxml]](/fct/images/cxml_doc.png)
![[csv]](/fct/images/csv_doc.png)
![[text]](/fct/images/ntriples_doc.png)
![[turtle]](/fct/images/n3turtle_doc.png)
![[ld+json]](/fct/images/jsonld_doc.png)
![[rdf+json]](/fct/images/json_doc.png)
![[rdf+xml]](/fct/images/xml_doc.png)
![[atom+xml]](/fct/images/atom_doc.png)
![[html]](/fct/images/html_doc.png)