Teething is a natural process that babies go through, but it can be tough for both the little ones and their parents, causing disruptions in sleep patterns. As a sleep consultant, I often observe parents struggling with sleep disturbances related to teething, but there are ways to make this period more manageable.
H2_1_New
Teething is a normal part of a baby’s growth, creating discomfort and irritation as the teeth break through the gums. This discomfort can lead to sleep disturbances, resulting in frequent awakenings and crankiness.
H3_1_New
Parents may notice the following during teething:
◆ More night wakings
◆ Trouble falling or staying asleep
◆ Shortened or interrupted naps
H3_2_New
Some signs to look out for include:
◆ Excessive drooling
◆ Swollen or sensitive gums
◆ Chewing on objects or fingers
H2_2_New
Determining if sleep disturbances are due to teething or other factors can be challenging.
H3_3_New
Teething symptoms coincide with changes in sleep patterns. Physical signs other than gum discomfort may indicate teething. However, sleep disruptions can also be caused by illnesses or developmental milestones. It is important to pay attention to other symptoms your baby may be experiencing to rule out other potential causes of sleep disturbances.
If your baby’s sleep problems are accompanied by fever or a rash, consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
H2_3_New
Although teething can affect sleep, there are ways to help soothe your baby and improve their rest during this period.
◆ Use comforting methods
◆ Cold teething rings or a chilled washcloth: can alleviate gum soreness.
◆ Gently massage the gums: provide relief from discomfort.
◆ Safe teething toys: specifically designed for overnight use.
H3_4_New
◆ Create a dark, quiet sleep environment: to help your baby relax and sleep peacefully.
◆ White noise machines: offer a consistent background noise.
H3_5_New
◆ Maintain a consistent bedtime routine: crucial even during teething. Include calming activities before bedtime.
◆ Use soothing techniques: such as gentle patting or rocking.
◆ Pain management (with caution): consult a healthcare provider if necessary.
H2_4_New
Stick to your sleep training routine during teething, making adjustments for your baby’s comfort while keeping a steady schedule.
H3_6_New
◆ Allow extra time for self-soothing: be patient as your baby learns to self-soothe.
◆ Adapt your approach: offer additional comfort when needed but maintain established sleep habits.
◆ Provide teething relief: offer chew toys or a chilled washcloth to help soothe your baby’s gums during teething.
H2_5_New
Teething is common, but seek professional advice if sleep issues are severe or prolonged, or if worrisome symptoms are present.
H3_7_New
◆ Persistent fever or rashes
◆ Excessive irritability or inconsolable crying
◆ Changes in appetite or vomiting
Teething poses challenges for babies, leading to disruptions in sleep patterns. Learn about symptoms, ways to soothe gums, common teething toys, and tips to help your baby sleep better.
Additional tips for soothing teething babies:
- Offer a clean, chilled teething ring for your baby to gnaw on.
- Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a cold, damp washcloth.
- Provide cold foods like refrigerated applesauce or yogurt to help numb the gums.
- Avoid teething gels containing benzocaine, as they can be harmful to young children.
H2_7_New
The teething process can last from 5 to 30 months, with actual pain occurring 24 to 72 hours before the tooth emerges. During this time, babies may experience symptoms such as increased drooling, irritability, swollen gums, and difficulty sleeping. Providing teething toys or cool objects for them to chew on can help alleviate some of the discomfort. It is also important to gently massage their gums with a clean finger or a damp cloth to provide some relief. If the pain seems severe or persists for an extended period of time, it is recommended to consult with a pediatric dentist for further advice.
H2_8_New
Signs of teething include:
| Symptoms of Teething | Symptoms not Related to Teething |
|---|
How can I help? #anchor
Effective Strategies for Soothing Gums and Easing Teething Discomfort Properly.
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents. Here are some useful tips to help soothe your baby’s gums and alleviate teething discomfort:
- Offer a teething ring or toy for your baby to chew on. The pressure can help relieve pain and discomfort.
- Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger to provide relief.
- Use a cold washcloth or chilled teething toy to numb the gums and reduce inflammation.
- Try giving your baby a cold, soft food like applesauce or yogurt to help numb the gums.
- Consider using over-the-counter teething gels or medications if recommended by your pediatrician.
Remember to always supervise your baby while they are teething and consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby’s teething process.
What about sleep during teething? # anchor
Each baby is unique, but those with a solid sleep routine tend to handle teething better. Establishing good sleep habits early on can lead to improved sleep quality during the teething process.
The first and best advice about teething and baby sleep: # anchor
Learn How to Cultivate Healthy Sleep Habits in Infants without Tears.
If your baby is 5–24 months, there’s still hope. # anchor
The ABCs of Sleep Plan for Ensuring 10-12 Hours of Independent Sleep Every Night. Navigate through regressions, teething, illnesses, and setbacks for a well-rested morning.
But let’s say you have a great little sleeper who is suddenly struggling… # anchor
Remember, excessive crying is typically not solely due to teething but can indicate an underlying illness.
If it is teething… # anchor
Consistency in daily routine, bedtime rituals, and nighttime strategies is crucial for promoting healthy sleep patterns.
If your little one is in discomfort, provide soothing care until the tooth breaks through the gum.
Teething may appear daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can successfully manage it.
References
Resource: Teething Information from Healthy Children, American Academy of Pediatrics (2024)
The content of this blog serves informational purposes; always consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.
For more information on teething and children’s oral health, please visit the Healthy Children website provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Share
About the Author
RN, BSN, Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant
Founder of Taking Cara Babies, assisting parents in confidently addressing sleep challenges.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or exhausted, let me guide you in improving your family’s sleep quality.
Select your child’s age group to get started:
- Newborn 0–4 months
- Baby 5–24 months
- Toddler 2–4 years
Are you ready to have a great little sleeper?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or unsure of where to begin, allow me to assist you in enhancing your family’s sleep habits.
Teething is a natural process by which teeth emerge through the gums, occurring typically until age 2.5 or 3.
The teething phase may lead to irritability and fussiness, temporarily affecting sleep patterns.
What You Need to Know About Teething and Debunked Myths
Teething usually starts around 6 months, with symptoms lasting a few days around tooth eruption.
Redness and drooling do not exclusively signify teething, as other behaviors can be normal.
Increased fussiness and nursing may indicate teething, seek guidance for severe symptoms.
Why Teething Discomfort May Intensify at Night
Nighttime sleep may be more impacted by teething due to lower distractions and hormonal changes.
Natural Remedies to Aid Teething Discomfort
Explore various methods such as temperature adjustments, breastmilk popsicles, silicone teethers, and more.
Things to Avoid during Teething
Avoid using amber necklaces, benzocaine-containing gels, or toys with gel fillings.
If sleep difficulties persist, consider seeking expert support from Hey Sleepy Baby 1:1 Sleep Consultation.
Consult a healthcare provider for pain relief options or homeopathic remedies.
Babies may encounter shifts in sleep patterns during teething, a normal phase of development.
What Is Teething and When Does It Start?
Teething typically begins between 4 to 7 months, displaying common signs like gum swelling, drooling, irritability, and disrupted sleep.
Do Babies Sleep More When Teething?
Babies’ sleep duration may vary during teething, with some resting more due to added strain, while others sleep less due to discomfort. Monitor your baby’s sleep changes and provide comfort accordingly.
Other Factors That Influence Baby Sleep
Several factors impact a baby’s sleep during teething, including growth spurts, illnesses, new settings, and emotional growth. Seek advice from a pediatric dentist if excessive sleepiness or fussiness persists.
During teething, babies often experience discomfort and pain, which can impact their sleep. Here are some additional tips to help your baby sleep better during this challenging time:
- Try giving your baby a warm bath before bedtime to relax their muscles and soothe any teething pain.
- Use a gentle, calming bedtime routine to signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. This could include reading a book, singing a lullaby, or dimming the lights in the room.
- If your baby is extra fussy at night, try using a white noise machine or playing soft music to create a soothing environment for sleep.
- Consider using natural remedies like chamomile tea or lavender essential oil to help your baby relax and fall asleep more easily.
By incorporating these tips into your baby’s bedtime routine, you can help them sleep better during teething and ensure they get the rest they need to grow and develop. Remember to always consult with your pediatrician before trying any new sleep strategies or remedies.
When to Contact a Dentist or Doctor
If your baby displays signs of unwellness during teething, such as refusal to eat or running a fever, consult a professional to rule out any underlying issues. Teething is natural but should not cause severe symptoms, thus a dental evaluation can offer reassurance.
Conclusion
In summary, babies may experience varying sleep patterns during teething, necessitating attentive observation and adequate comfort. If concerns persist, or for expert care and support for your child’s dental health, consider visiting the Center for Pediatric Dentistry.