teething and sleep: how to help your baby (and you) get better rest from a gentle sleep consultant

 

Teething is a natural milestone for babies, but it can also be a challenging phase for both infants and parents. As those tiny teeth push through the gums, discomfort often leads to disrupted sleep patterns, leaving many parents feeling exhausted and unsure how to help. As a sleep consultant, I regularly see parents struggling with teething-related sleep disturbances. If your little one struggles with sleep due to teething, you're not alone. Fortunately, you can take steps to make this phase a little easier for both of you.

 

 

how teething affects baby sleep

Teething is a natural part of your baby's development, but it's not without its challenges. As those little teeth break through the gums, they can cause irritation and discomfort. This discomfort can disrupt your baby's sleep, leading to more frequent wakings, difficulty falling asleep, and fussiness, especially at bedtime.

 

common sleep disruptions

During teething, parents often notice:

◆ Increased night wakings: Babies may wake up more often during the night due to discomfort.

◆ Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep: The pain can make it hard for your baby to settle, even when tired.

◆ Shortened or disrupted naps: Teething can also affect daytime naps, leading to crankier, more overtired babies.

 

signs of teething

You might notice signs like:

◆ Excessive drooling (this can also lead to tummy discomfort/loose stools as well as a sore bottom).

◆ Swollen or tender gums

◆ Chewing on objects or fingers

◆ Irritability or fussiness, especially around bedtime These signs can help you identify whether teething is the culprit behind your baby's sleep struggles.

 

 

how to recognise if sleep issues are due to teething

It's not always easy to tell if your baby's sleep disruptions are caused by teething, or if something else is going on.

 

linking sleep disruptions to teething

Teething symptoms typically appear near changes in your baby's sleep behaviour. If your little one starts waking up more often or seems more fussy than usual just as their first teeth appear, teething is likely the cause. Often, you will also see physical signs outside of the gums that can indicate teething, too:

◆ Drooling

◆ Low fever

◆ Red, warm cheeks

 

However, it's important to remember that sleep disruptions can also happen due to:

◆ Growth spurts

◆ Illnesses like colds or ear infections

◆ Developmental milestones, such as learning to roll over or sit up.

 

If your baby's sleep issues seem to be accompanied by other symptoms (like fever or rash), it's a good idea to consult your GP.

 

 

tips to help your bub sleep better during teething

While teething may disrupt your baby's sleep, there are several ways to comfort them and help them rest a little better through the discomfort.

◆ Your regularly used comforting techniques

◆ Chilled teething rings or a cool washcloth: We recommend items like the b.box chill + fill teether as it can provide soothing relief for sore gums. Just chill them in the fridge before bringing them to your baby. The cold relief helps numb the gums and gives relief when biting down.

◆ Gently massaging the gums: Use a clean finger to gently massage your baby's gums, offering some relief from the discomfort.

◆ Safe teething toys: A teething toy like the b.box wrist teether can be a great option for sleep, as it's designed to be safe for overnight use.

 

create a calming sleep environment

◆ Dark, quiet room: Keep the room dark and serene to help your baby relax and sleep more soundly.

◆ White noise machines: White noise machines can mask any environmental sounds that might disturb your baby, providing a consistent and soothing background hum.

 

bedtime routine adjustments

◆ Consistent bedtime routine: Keeping a steady bedtime routine is key, even during teething. Consider incorporating calming activities like rocking, soft lullabies, or even a warm bath before bed.

◆ Soothing techniques: Offer comfort with gentle pats, rocking, etc.

◆ Pain management (with caution): If your baby's discomfort seems severe, consult your GP about over-the-counter baby pain relievers, such as infant Paracetamol or ibuprofen, to help ease the pain. However, always check with your doctor or a pharmacist first to ensure the treatment is safe and appropriate for your baby's age.

 

 

how to maintain sleep training while teething

It can be tough to stick to sleep training during teething, but consistency is still important. While you may need to make a few adjustments to accommodate your baby's discomfort, keeping a consistent sleep routine can help them feel more secure.

 

gentle and responsive sleep training during teething

◆ Extra time for self-soothing: Sleep training might take your baby a little longer to self-soothe during teething. Be patient and allow extra time for them to learn.

◆ Adjusting your approach: If your baby is used to falling asleep independently, you may need to offer extra comfort during this phase. Always allow your little one to fall asleep in the independent way they are used to; however, add a brief pat/ body stroke in the cot to provide additional comfort if needed and increase as needed. It is important always to attempt to put your little one down the way you normally would to avoid creating new habits/expectations you don't wish to continue once the teething settles down.

 

 

when to seek help from a GP

While teething is a common cause of sleep disruptions, it's important to know when to seek professional advice. If your baby's sleep issues seem extreme or prolonged, or if you notice other concerning symptoms, it's worth consulting a doctor.

 

signs that may require a doctor's visit

◆ Persistent fever or rashes

◆ Excessive irritability or inconsolable crying

◆ Changes in appetite or vomiting. These could be signs of an illness or more serious discomfort that requires medical attention

 

 

conclusion

Teething can be a challenging phase, but it's temporary. With the right approach, your baby will be back to sleeping soundly soon. Remember to be patient, flexible, and consistent with your routines. With the tips above, you can help comfort your baby during this uncomfortable time and support their sleep, even while teething. If you're struggling, don't hesitate to reach out for personalised sleep support, please contact me at sweetdreamers.com.au — you're not alone in this journey!

 

Written By: Carlene Rotblat from Sweet Dreamers Sleep Consulting

Carlene is a Certified Gentle Baby and Toddler Sleep Consultant, AHPRA registered Nurse and mum with over 12 years of experience in the field. As a gentle sleep consultant, Carlene focuses on responsive and holistic approaches to sleep without using controlled crying or crying it out. She provides consultations and personalised sleep plans to families all across Australia and can assist children from 0-6 years of age. Carlene also developed Baby Sleep Pods, a universal pram cover designed to support sleep on the go and lifestyle flexibility – get yours at babysleeppods.com.au

Carlene is a gentle sleep consultant at Sweet Dreamers Sleep Consulting. She aims to help as many families as she can get the sleep they need in a gentle way that fosters children's needs for support and reassurance whilst assisting them to feel happy and confident and have better quality, independent sleep.

You can find Sweet Dreamers Sleep Consulting at https://www.sweetdreamers.com.au or on Instagram @sweetdreamerssleepconsulting.