Teething is an important milestone in your child’s oral development, but it can be a challenge for babies and parents alike! Especially at night, you might find that your little one is fussy. Both of you may end up deprived of much-needed rest. How can you help your teething baby get some sleep? This blog post provides practical suggestions.
Create a Calm Bedtime Routine
Establishing a calm bedtime routine sets the stage for restful sleep. You may wish to start with a warm bath, followed by reading a short story or singing a gentle lullaby. Try to keep the routine consistent each night so your baby learns to associate these activities with sleep time. Dim the lights and lower any household noise to signal that it is time to wind down for the night. Patience and predictability can help your baby feel secure, even when teething discomfort is present.
Offer Comfort
Your teething baby may need extra comfort at night. You can offer a clean, chilled teething ring for your child to chew on, which helps soothe sore gums. A wet washcloth that has been in the freezer for 30 – 60 minutes can also work well.
Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger is another way to provide relief. If your baby uses a pacifier, ensure it is clean and available. Holding, cuddling, or softly rocking your baby can also help them feel safe and calm as they settle into sleep.
Maintain a Comfortable Sleep Environment
Creating a comfortable sleep environment makes a big difference for a teething baby. Ensure your baby’s room is at a comfortable temperature, not too hot or too cold. Use blackout curtains to keep the room dark and consider a white noise machine to mask household sounds. A well-fitted crib mattress with a soft sheet creates a cozy place for your baby to rest. Removing distractions can help your little one focus on sleep, even if teething pain is present.
Monitor Feeding and Hydration
Pay close attention to your baby’s feeding and hydration needs, especially while teething. Offer breast milk or formula at regular intervals during the day and before bedtime, but avoid overfeeding right before sleep. Some babies may need cool water if they are old enough and your pediatrician approves.
Provide Medicine
Your baby may benefit from an age-appropriate dose of acetaminophen taken about 30 minutes before bedtime. Before providing the medication, talk to your child’s pediatrician to make sure it is safe.
You should not use teething tablets and topical numbing agents; the topical gels tend to simply wash away, and teething tablets often contain ingredients that are not safe for infants.
Seek Professional Advice
If your baby’s sleep difficulties persist or your child appears to be in significant pain, reach out to your pediatrician or dentist. A healthcare professional can rule out other causes of discomfort and suggest safe remedies for teething pain. It is always best to consult with a professional if you have concerns about your baby’s sleep or overall well-being.
You are not alone in facing sleepless nights with a teething baby. Thankfully, with patience and a few simple strategies, both you and your little one may finally be able to get some rest.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Adrienne Archidiacono-Jeanis is proud to serve the Aledo community as a highly skilled pediatric dentist. She understands how challenging teething can be, and she is ready to provide advice and guidance to parents. To learn more about her or to request a visit for your little one, contact our office at 817-406-2025.