Many parents notice that their baby’s sleep is disrupted around developmental milestones, such as rolling over, crawling, and notably, teething. While these phases are completely normal, they often bring new challenges at bedtime.
Teething can cause gum discomfort long before a tooth breaks through. A study published in Pediatrics (April 2000) found that babies often experience increased irritability and nighttime waking starting four days before a tooth erupts and lasting for three days afterward.
Common signs your baby is teething
When it comes to teething and sleep, many symptoms overlap, which can make it hard to pinpoint the true cause of nighttime disruptions. When we work with families, we often say that if your baby seems uncomfortable during the day because of teething, it’s likely they’ll be affected at night too.
Here are typical signs of teething:
- Chewing on fingers, toys, or anything within reach
- Excessive drooling (sometimes causing a rash around the mouth)
- Flushed cheeks on one or both sides
- Increased fussiness or irritability
- Decreased appetite
- Looser or more frequent stools due to increased saliva
Supporting your baby’s sleep during teething
It’s natural to want to soothe your baby however you can, especially when they’re clearly in discomfort. But falling back into habits like rocking or feeding to sleep can quickly become new “sleep props” that outlast the teething phase.
Here’s how to support teething babies without undermining healthy sleep habits:
Respond with comfort, not habits: If your baby wakes upset, go to them quickly, offer reassurance or teething-safe pain relief (if recommended), then allow them to fall asleep independently.
Avoid quick fixes: Occasional support won’t undo good sleep habits, but several nights of reverting to old sleep associations can lead to regression.
Keep routines the same: Stick to consistent nap and bedtime schedules. If they’ve rolled or shifted in the crib, gently reposition them, but try not to over-engage.
Daytime comfort strategies for teething
Gum relief: Use a chilled teething ring or a cold, damp muslin cloth to soothe sore gums. You can also massage their gums gently with a clean finger.
Baby-led weaning: If your baby is over six months, offer soft finger foods like toast or peeled fruit to encourage chewing.
Avoid excess sugar: Check labels on baby snacks and meals to ensure you’re not accidentally offering sugary foods. Offer water in a free-flow beaker from six months and transition to milk in a cup by 12 months.
If your baby continues to seem distressed or cannot be soothed, don’t hesitate to reach out to a pharmacist or your health visitor.
Once those teeth emerge…
- When the teeth finally make their debut, remember to start a simple dental care routine:
- Brush twice daily with a baby-safe toothbrush and toothpaste
- Book their first dental visit by their first birthday
- Continue encouraging healthy eating and drinking habits
You can read more about looking after your baby’s teeth here.
Balancing teething with sleep
Every baby reacts differently to teething. Some sail through it with minimal fuss, while others find it more disruptive, especially at night. As long as you continue to offer comfort without creating new sleep associations, most babies bounce back to their usual sleep routines quickly.
If your little one was already struggling with sleep before teething began, and you’re looking for some help, please book in for a free, no obligation 15 minute chat with us and you we can tell you more about what working with us involves.
