The 20-second answer
Why do people chew?
It gives calming jaw pressure
Bite through things?
Choose a tough, solid chew
Chew pens at school?
A pencil topper chew
In short: chewing gives the jaw firm pressure that many people find calming or focusing. A chew made for the job is safer than sleeves, pens or nails. Choose one that matches how hard you bite, check it before each use, and replace it as soon as it is damaged.
Why people chew
Why do autistic and ADHD people chew?
Jaw pressure
Chewing sends strong signals from the jaw muscles, which can feel calming and organising.
To calm down
Chewing often increases when someone is anxious, bored or overloaded.
To focus
Some people concentrate better when their mouth is busy, like chewing gum while studying.
Instead of other things
Sleeves, cuffs, pens and nails get chewed when there is nothing better to hand.
When to get advice
Chewing is common and usually nothing to worry about. Speak to a dentist if chewing causes tooth or jaw pain, and to a GP if someone is eating things that are not food, or chewing starts suddenly.
Which is which
What kinds of chew are there?
Necklaces and pendants
A chew on a breakaway cord, worn round the neck. Always to hand.
- Always there
- Can look like jewellery
- Not for sleep
- Not for heavy biters
Good for: School, work, days out
Pencil toppers
A chew that slides onto the end of a pencil or pen.
- Replaces chewed pens
- Fits in a pencil case
- Easy to lose
Good for: Classroom, homework, studying
Handheld chews
Solid chews shaped like a T, stick or tube. Made for strong biting.
- Lasts longest
- Reaches back teeth
- Not wearable
Good for: Home, the car, heavy biters
How tough
How tough should a chew be?
Match the chew to how hard you bite. Too soft and it wears out fast; too hard and it hurts.
How you chew
Start one level softer than you think, and go tougher if it wears out within a couple of weeks.
Read more: what makes a chew last
Solid chews last longer than hollow ones, and thicker shapes last longer than thin ones. Some makers list a hardness number (called Shore A): a higher number means firmer.
Where you chew matters too. Back teeth (molars) are much stronger than front teeth, so people who chew with their molars usually need a tougher chew, often a handheld one that reaches further back.
Staying safe
How do I check a chew is safe?
A quick check before each use. If any answer is no, follow the note underneath it.
Is it free of cracks, tears and bite marks you can feel?
Throw it away. Small pieces can break off.
Is the cord a breakaway type that comes apart if pulled?
Swap the cord before wearing it.
Is it being worn awake?
Take necklaces off for sleep, naps and car seats.
For young children: is an adult keeping an eye?
Supervise children while they use a chew.
Teething necklaces are different
Amber and bead teething necklaces for babies carry a real choking and strangulation risk, and health bodies warn against them. Sensory chews are for older children and adults.
What to look for
What should I look for when buying a chew?
Safe material
Food-grade or medical-grade silicone, free from BPA, phthalates and latex.
Breakaway clasp
For anything worn round the neck.
Right size
Big enough that it cannot fit fully in the mouth.
Easy to clean
Dishwasher safe or easy to wash in warm soapy water.
Discreet design
Shapes and colours that look like jewellery, if that matters to you.
Have two
One to use and one being washed, so there is always a clean one.
No shame
Chewing is a need, not a bad habit. A proper chew is better than being told to stop.
Tell the dentist
Mention regular chewing at check-ups, so they can keep an eye on teeth.
Questions
Common questions
Is chewing a sign of autism or ADHD?
Lots of people chew, with or without a diagnosis. It is common in autistic and ADHD people, but on its own it does not mean someone is either.
Can adults use chew necklaces?
Yes. Many are designed to look like ordinary jewellery, and handheld chews can be kept in a bag or desk.
How long does a chew last?
Anything from a few weeks to several months, depending on how hard it is chewed. Replace it as soon as you see damage.
How do I clean a chew?
Wash it every day in warm soapy water and rinse well. Many are dishwasher safe on the top rack. Check the maker’s instructions.
Is chewing gum a good alternative?
It can be, for older children and adults, especially sugar-free gum. It is not allowed everywhere, so a chew is a good backup.