When your baby’s first teeth start to come through their gums, it marks a big moment in their growth.
This process starts at different times for each baby, but most begin around 6 months old.
Some babies might start earlier, while others take longer. As a parent, seeing your little one in pain can be hard.
Your baby might be fussy and have trouble sleeping. But don’t worry – this is normal.
Most babies will have all their first teeth by age 2.
Knowing what to look for and how to help your baby can make this time easier for both of you.
What is Teething?
Yes, teething can make it hard for babies to sleep well at night.
When teeth push through the gums, it causes pain and makes babies feel bad.
While deep sleep might not break from teething alone, the pain before bedtime can make it hard for babies to fall asleep.
They might also wake up more often and have trouble going back to sleep when they do wake up.
Teething is when your baby’s teeth start coming through their gums.
It happens because special body signals break down parts of the gum to let teeth come through.
Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months old. By age 3, they usually have all 20 of their first teeth.
The bottom front teeth often come first, followed by the top front teeth.
Teething vs Sleep
When your baby has trouble sleeping, it’s not always clear if teething is the reason.
During the months when teeth come in, babies also learn many new things like sitting up, crawling, and talking.
These changes can also affect how well they sleep. Your baby might wake up more often or fight to go to sleep.
Sometimes, what seems like teething problems might actually be normal growth changes or sleep pattern shifts as your baby ages.
Teething Symptoms
Teething babies often show signs like swollen gums, more drool than usual, and wanting to chew on things.
They might also be fussy, have trouble sleeping, and not want to eat as much.
1. Swollen Gums
When teeth are about to come through, your baby’s gums get red and puffy.
The spots where teeth are coming in might look bumpy. This can make your baby’s mouth feel sore and tender.
2. Crankiness
Teething makes babies feel bad, so they cry more and get upset easily.
They might be extra fussy in the late afternoon and at bedtime when they’re more tired.
3. Frequent Biting
Babies bite and chew on toys, fingers, and other items because the pressure helps their gums feel better.
This natural response helps ease their pain.
4. Loss of Appetite
When gums hurt, eating can be painful for babies.
They might eat less food than usual or stop eating certain foods, especially hard items that press on their gums.
5. Fever
Some babies get slightly warm while teething, but their temperature stays below 100.4 F.
If your baby has a higher fever, call your doctor – it’s likely not from teething.
How to Sooth Teething Pain?
When your baby feels pain from teething, several simple methods can help them feel better.
These tips can make a big difference from cool objects to gentle touches.
Here are proven ways to help your little one during this time.
Offer Them Cooling Teether
A cool teether can help numb your baby’s sore gums.
Put a solid plastic teether in the fridge, not the freezer, for about 30 minutes.
Make sure to use only solid teethers, as gel-filled ones might break.
Check each teether before giving it to your baby to make sure it’s still in good shape.
Keep several clean teethers in the fridge so you always have one ready when your baby needs it.
Gum Massage
Using a clean finger, you can gently rub your baby’s gums in small circles.
This simple touch can help reduce pain by increasing blood flow to the area.
Wash your hands well before starting.
Apply firm but gentle pressure – your baby will let you know what feels good.
If they have teeth already be careful not to get bitten.
Many babies find this soothing, especially before feeding or sleep.
Consider Medicine
If your baby seems very uncomfortable, pain medicine might help.
For babies over 2 months old, you can use baby acetaminophen (Tylenol).
If your baby is older than 6 months, ibuprofen (Motrin) is also an option.
Always talk to your doctor first to get the right amount for your baby’s age and weight.
Give medicine 30 minutes before bedtime if sleep is hard.
Stay away from teething gels – they’re not safe for babies.
Give Them a Comforting Bath
A warm bath can help your baby feel better before bedtime.
The warm water helps them relax and takes their mind off the pain.
Keep the water at a nice, warm temperature, not too hot. Add some safe bath toys to make it fun.
Changing routine and warm water often help babies calm down and get ready for sleep.
Provide Extra Comfort
Your baby needs more love during teething. Hold them close, give extra hugs, and spend time rocking them.
Sometimes, just being near you helps them feel better. Try quiet activities like reading books or gentle singing.
Keep your voice soft and movements calm. This extra attention helps your baby feel safe and loved, making the pain easier to handle.
Conclusion
I know how tough it can be to watch your baby feel pain during teething.
Try the tips we’ve shared – cooling teethers, gentle gum massage, or a warm bath. If you’re worried, talk to your doctor.
Keep track of what helps your baby feel better. Write it down if needed. Soon, you’ll spot the signs early and know just what to do.
Most babies have all their first teeth by age 2, so this won’t last forever. You’ve got this, and your baby will get through it, too.
