What To Expect; Get the sleep you need when your baby is teething

 

Did you know that most babies have between 2 and 4 teeth by their first birthday? As babies reach new milestones, their needs change. 
One change you might experience is your baby’s sleep pattern changing while they are teething. They may also be fussy at nap or bedtime.

Each baby is different. Here’s when to expect teething phases:

  • Around 6 to 12 months of age, the first tooth comes in! 
  • By age 1, most toddlers have between 2 and 4 teeth.
  • By age 3, most toddlers have all of their baby teeth. That’s 20 baby teeth!

Ease your baby’s teething pain by:

  • Offering a clean, cold, or frozen damp washcloth for them to chew on. 

  • Massaging their gums. Make sure to clean your hands and fingernails first!

  • Offering a solid (not fluid-filled) cool teething toy.

Talk to your baby’s health care provider before giving any medication. 
The FDA warns that some teething products can be harmful. Avoid giving these to your baby:  

  • Teething tablets
  • Gels with benzocaine
  • “Natural” teething gels or tablets
  • Teething necklaces - they can strangle or choke your baby.

Get the sleep you need when your baby is teething with these tips:

  • Stick to a bedtime routine for your baby. Your baby will know what to expect when you have a bedtime routine.
  • A baby’s routine might include any of the following:
    - Bathing
    - Cleaning baby's teeth and gums
    - Changing diapers
    - Cuddling
    - Singing/listening to soothing music
    - Reading
  • Go to bed in the evening soon after your baby goes to bed! Get extra sleep by starting your own bedtime routine as soon as your little one falls asleep.
  • A mom's routine might include any of the following:
    - Bathing, washing face, brushing and flossing teeth
    - Closing the window coverings
    - Listening to soft music, or practicing meditation, or prayer
    - Reading

  • Breastfeed to bring calmness. When breastfeeding, the body makes hormones that reduce stress and bring calmness.

  • Ask your partner, a friend, or a relative for help during the day so you can rest. If you are breastfeeding, your baby might want to feed more often for comfort.

  • Know that teething is a normal phase. Before you know it, your baby will have a mouth full of teeth!