9 Ways to Help Your Teething Baby Sleep (from a Mom of 4)
While teething is a normal process of being a baby, it sure can disrupt a baby’s sleep.
The disruption is due to the amount of discomfort a baby has through the teething process, and it can be frustrating to both baby and parent.
As the good mom that you are, you want to help your baby as much as possible during teething. You realize how important sleep is for yourself and yourself.
So, in this article, you will learn what teething is like for your baby, as well as how to ease sleep for your baby who is teething.
Having gone through the experience of four teething babies, and also having helped hundreds of parents when I had my parent education center, I know it can be hard on you when your baby is teething.
So, in good news, because you matter as well, you’ll learn ways to self-care during this process.
What Does Teething Feel Like for a Baby?
Teething is a natural process that all babies go through. It usually starts around 6 months of age.
During this time, your baby’s first tooth might appear, although it can happen earlier or later.
Teething can make your baby’s gums sore and tender. This is because the new tooth is pushing through the gums.
The process of a tooth pushing through the gums can be uncomfortable for your baby.
You might notice your baby is more fussy than usual.
They might bite, drool more, or have sleep disturbances. These are all common symptoms of teething.
Your baby may also rub their baby’s face or pull on their ears. These behaviors are your baby’s way of trying to soothe the pain of teething.
How to Know Baby is Teething
To know when your baby is teething, there are several signs of teething you can watch for.
It’s a significant developmental milestone that usually occurs in a baby’s first year, often around the first birthday.
The most common signs of teething include drooling more than usual, chewing on solid objects, and showing a general sense of discomfort.
Your baby might also have a red cheek on the side where the tooth is coming in and exhibit skin irritation around the mouth due to excessive drooling.
During teething, a baby’s first teeth usually emerge in the front of the mouth, known as the front teeth.
You might notice swollen, tender gums where a new tooth is about to break through. Sometimes, you can even see or feel the outline of the teeth under the gums before they erupt.
Teething can disrupt your baby’s usual routine, leading to sleep regression or increased fussiness, especially in the middle of the night.
They might also experience a slight increase in temperature, but it’s important to know that a high fever is not a normal sign of teething and could indicate an ear infection or other illness.
Your baby might show less interest in solid foods or become more irritable during feedings because of the discomfort in their gums.
Using a chilled teething ring or offering cold foods can help soothe their gums and make eating more comfortable
The American Dental Association and pediatric dentistry experts provide valuable insights for new parents on how to handle teething. They recommend using a clean, cold washcloth or a metal spoon chilled in the refrigerator to gently rub your baby’s gums, providing pain relief.
Teething often begins between 4 to 7 years of age for most infants, although it can start earlier or later. The timing can coincide with other growth spurts, so it’s essential to look at the whole picture of your baby’s development.
If your baby is in significant discomfort, consult with your healthcare provider about using infant ibuprofen or other pain reliever options.
However, these should be used as a last resort and under medical advice. A teething gel can be considered but be cautious about their ingredients and approval from the drug administration.
If you’re using sleep training, these techniques might need adjustment during this time to help your baby get back to their normal sleep patterns.
Gentle rocking, cuddling, or the use of white noise can be effective in soothing a teething baby during restless nights.
By observing these signs and using the above tips, you can better understand when your baby is teething and how to provide comfort.
Remember, each baby is unique, so what works for one might not work for another.
Stay observant, and patient, and consult healthcare professionals when necessary to help your baby go through the teething phase with as much ease as possible.
Teething Pain and Nighttime
Many parents find that teething pain seems worse at night. Baby’s tooth feels even more uncomfortable during this time.
During the day, your baby has many distractions. These can help them forget about the discomfort.
But at night, when things are quiet and calm, the pain can feel more intense. This can make it hard for your baby to sleep.
Sleep patterns can change because of teething.
Your baby might wake up more often during the night.
This is a tough time, but it’s important to remember that teething is a developmental milestone. It’s a sign that your child is growing as expected.
Experts like those from the American Academy of Pediatrics offer guidance on this.
They suggest that gentle gum massage can help.
Using a clean finger to rub your baby’s gums with light pressure can provide pain relief. This can be a soothing ritual before bedtime to help improve your baby’s nighttime sleep.
While teething can be a challenging time, with patience and the right remedies, you can help your baby get through it.
By understanding what your baby is going through, you can offer the right support to ease their discomfort and ensure better sleep for both of you.
9 Home Remedies for a Teething Baby
Helping your teething baby sleep better can be achieved through some effective home remedies.
These methods can soothe your baby’s discomfort and promote better baby’s sleep during this difficult time.
1. Chilled Teething Toys and Foods
Using chilled teething toys or cold items can provide great relief for your baby’s sore gums.
The cold helps numb the tender gums and reduces inflammation.
Make sure the items are not too hard and are free from being a choking hazard.
My favorite way to provide comfort was using a clean washcloth dipped in cool water, which I then got to slightly frozen. It can also work well as a teething toy.
2. Massage Gums Gently
Applying gentle pressure with a clean finger on your baby’s gums can help ease the pain of teething.
You can use a damp washcloth to rub their gums in a circular motion.
This massage can be a comforting part of your baby’s bedtime routine and help them sleep better.
3. Lots of Cuddles and Comforting
During the teething process, babies often seek more comfort and attention.
Holding and cuddling your baby can reassure them and help reduce the stress associated with teething.
Comforting your baby this way can lead to a good night’s sleep for both of you.
4. Create a Comfortable Environment
Creating a calming environment is key to improving your baby’s sleep.
A white noise machine can mask disruptive sounds and soothe your fussy baby.
Keeping the room at a comfortable temperature and using soft lighting can also go a long way in ensuring a peaceful sleep routine.
5. Soothing Bedtime Routine
A consistent bedtime routine is key for helping your teething baby sleep. Begin with a calming activity, like a warm bath, to relax your baby and ease the discomfort in their gums.
After the bath, do a quiet, soothing process like reading or gentle cuddling. This routine helps signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
6. Try Different Sleeping Positions
Finding the best sleeping position for your baby can help alleviate teething discomfort.
Some babies might prefer a slightly elevated head, while others might sleep better on their side.
Be sure that any position you try is safe and recommended for babies to prevent any risks.
7. Use Natural Bedding
Opt for bedding made from natural fabrics to keep your baby comfortable and prevent overheating.
Materials like cotton are breathable and gentle on sensitive skin, reducing irritation from excessive drooling often seen in teething babies.
8. Adjust the Room Temperature
The right room temperature can aid in better sleep.
It’s a good idea to make sure your baby’s sleeping space is not too hot or too cold.
A comfortable temperature for a sleeping baby is usually between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
Adjusting the room temperature can prevent your baby from becoming too hot or too cold, which is especially important during the teething phase.
9. Keep Daytime Naps Consistent
Adequate daytime sleep is key to preventing overtiredness, which can exacerbate nighttime sleep difficulties.
Establish a consistent nap schedule that aligns with your baby’s natural sleep cues, so that the baby is well-rested and can handle the discomfort of teething more effectively at night.
These detailed steps can help alleviate the discomfort associated with teething and improve the quality of your baby’s sleep. Adapting these strategies to fit your baby’s specific needs can go a long way in ensuring they, and you, get a better night’s rest.
Self-Care for the Mom of a Teething Baby
Caring for a baby during the teething phase can be challenging, so it’s important that you too are caring for yourself during this time.
Here are some top tips for moms to take care of themselves during this period:
- Prioritize Sleep: Night waking is common when your baby’s teeth are coming in. Try to rest when your baby sleeps to mitigate sleep deprivation. Ask your partner to help you get more sleep.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Consuming nutritious meals and staying hydrated can help you manage the stress of a baby’s teething and keep your energy levels up.
- Seek Support: If you’re a new parent, don’t hesitate to ask for help from family and friends to get through this growth spurt in your baby’s life.
- Use a Wet Washcloth: Not just for your baby’s mouth, but also as a cooling compress for your neck or face during stressful moments.
- Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation: Engaging in mindfulness and relaxation techniques can be the best way to cope with the stress and demands of caring for a teething baby.
- Connect with Other Moms: Sharing experiences with other moms can provide practical advice and emotional support during this challenging time.
- Take Short Breaks: Even brief moments of respite can be beneficial for your mental health and well-being.
- Do a Hobby or Interest: Finding time for activities you enjoy can be a great way to relieve stress and stay balanced.
- Be Kind to Yourself: Recognize the challenges of these developmental milestones and be gentle with yourself, understanding that this period is just a phase in the broader journey of parenthood.
By focusing on these areas, you can find ways to care for yourself while managing the challenges of a teething baby, so that both you and the baby’s needs are met during this significant developmental stage.
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