Do Babies Sleep More When Teething?

Teething is an exciting developmental milestone for your little one, but it often comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to sleep. Many parents wonder if their babies will sleep more during teething to compensate for the extra discomfort, but, in reality, teething usually causes more sleep disruptions than extended sleep. This guide explores how teething affects your baby’s sleep and offers tips to help soothe your baby and ensure restful nights.

How Teething Affects Sleep

Contrary to some beliefs, teething does not typically make babies sleep more. Instead, teething is more likely to disrupt sleep patterns due to the discomfort it brings. When new teeth start to emerge, they push through the sensitive gum tissue, which can be painful and uncomfortable for babies, especially at night when they’re lying down and have fewer distractions. Here are some common teething symptoms that can affect sleep:

Irritability and Fussiness

Teething can be painful, making babies more irritable and fussy than usual. This discomfort often peaks at night, causing frequent waking and making it harder for your baby to settle back down.

Increased Drooling

Teething is often accompanied by increased drooling. While drooling itself isn’t painful, excessive drooling can lead to skin irritation around the mouth and chin, which can be uncomfortable and lead to additional fussiness at bedtime.

Swollen and Tender Gums

The gums become swollen and tender as the new teeth push through, which can make it difficult for babies to relax and fall asleep. Babies may wake more frequently and find it challenging to settle down due to the tenderness in their gums.

Managing Teething Discomfort to Promote Better Sleep

Although teething discomfort cannot be eliminated, there are several ways to soothe your baby’s gums and help them sleep better during this challenging phase.

Gentle Gum Massage

Massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can provide temporary relief from teething pain. Applying gentle pressure helps soothe sore areas, making it easier for your baby to relax before bedtime.

Offer Teething Toys

Teething toys can be a great comfort for babies, especially when they’re chilled. Cold temperatures can help numb sore gums, providing some relief from discomfort. However, avoid freezing the teether, as extremely cold temperatures can cause more harm than good. Instead, place the teether in the fridge for a cooling effect.

When choosing teething toys, ensure they are age-appropriate and free from harmful chemicals to keep your baby safe.

Maintain a Consistent Bedtime Routine

A soothing and predictable bedtime routine can help your baby feel calm and secure, even during the discomfort of teething. Include activities like a warm bath, gentle rocking, or reading a story. The consistency of a bedtime routine can provide comfort and help ease the transition to sleep, even if teething is causing discomfort.

Provide a Calm Sleeping Environment

Create a peaceful and dark sleeping environment for your baby. White noise machines or soft lullabies can help drown out background noise, providing a calming atmosphere that encourages sleep. Limiting exposure to screens or overly stimulating activities before bed can also support a restful night.

Consider Over-the-Counter Relief (With Pediatrician Approval)

If your baby’s teething discomfort is significantly affecting their sleep, talk to your pediatrician about possible pain relief options. In some cases, infant pain relievers like acetaminophen may be recommended. However, it’s essential to use these medications sparingly and always under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

When to Expect Improved Sleep

Teething discomfort usually comes in waves, so the disruptions it causes to sleep are typically temporary. Once the tooth has broken through the gum, your baby may start to sleep more soundly again until the next tooth begins its journey. Most babies begin teething around 4-7 months, with the first teeth often emerging in the lower front of the mouth. Keep in mind that teething will continue periodically throughout the first couple of years, with different teeth coming in at different stages.

Conclusion

Teething is a natural but sometimes challenging phase for babies, often leading to increased fussiness and disrupted sleep patterns. While teething usually doesn’t make babies sleep more, implementing gentle soothing techniques can help minimize discomfort and improve your baby’s sleep quality during this time. By providing a comforting bedtime routine, offering soothing relief like teething toys or gum massages, and consulting with your pediatrician for additional support if needed, you can help your baby navigate this milestone with less stress.

Remember that every baby is unique, so teething experiences will vary. With patience and the right approach, you’ll soon be able to help your little one settle into a peaceful sleep, even through teething challenges.