Teething is one of those milestones that can feel like a sleep saboteur, but does it really disrupt sleep as much as we think? While many parents swear their baby sleeps worse when a new tooth is coming in, recent research suggests that teething itself might not be the main culprit. So, what’s really going on—and how can you keep sleep on track while soothing your little one’s discomfort?
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Signs Your Baby is Teething
Every baby experiences teething differently, but common signs include:
Increased drooling
Chewing on hands, toys, or anything within reach
Swollen or sensitive gums
Fussiness, especially during the day
Changes in appetite (some babies nurse/feed more, others less)
What’s not a sign of teething? High fever, diarrhea, or persistent sleep troubles. If these are happening, it’s best to check in with your pediatrician.
How to Soothe Teething Discomfort Without Disrupting Sleep
Teething discomfort tends to peak during the day, meaning that by bedtime, your baby should be able to sleep well if they’re not overtired. Here’s how to help:
🦷 Use Cold Comfort – A chilled (not frozen) teething ring or a cold, damp washcloth can help soothe sore gums before naps and bedtime.
🦷 Gentle Gum Massage – Using a clean finger, gently rub your baby’s gums for a minute or two before sleep.
🦷 Stick to Your Routine – Sleep thrives on consistency! If your baby is fussy, offer comfort but avoid creating new sleep habits (like rocking to sleep).
🦷 Pain Relief if Needed – If your baby is truly uncomfortable, talk to your pediatrician about using baby-safe pain relief like infant acetaminophen.
Teething may cause temporary fussiness, but it doesn’t have to derail sleep! By sticking to your routine, using safe soothing techniques, and ensuring your baby isn’t overtired, you can help them through teething without major sleep disruptions. If your baby’s sleep has been off for more than a few nights, there may be another reason—like a sleep regression or schedule shift—so keep an eye on their overall sleep patterns.
Need help getting your baby’s sleep back on track? I’m here to help! Let’s find the best approach for your little one’s sleep needs.
