How to Help a Baby Sleep During Teething: Tips for Exhausted Parents
Teething can be one of the most challenging stages of infancy, both for babies and their parents. As those tiny teeth begin to push through the gums, babies often experience discomfort, which can make sleep more elusive than ever. If your little one is having trouble settling down, you're not alone. Fortunately, there are several strategies to help soothe your baby and ease them into a more peaceful sleep despite the teething discomfort.
1. Offer Teething Toys for Relief
Teething toys are a great tool to help your baby find relief. These toys are designed to be chewed on, helping to massage the gums and relieve the pressure caused by emerging teeth. Choose soft, BPA-free toys, and consider refrigerating them for extra cooling relief. Cold can numb the area temporarily, providing your baby with much-needed comfort.
2. Try a Gentle Gum Massage
Gently massaging your baby's gums with a clean finger can help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with teething. The pressure from your finger can ease the tension in their gums and give them a sense of calm. Just be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before attempting this technique!
3. Use Teething Gel or Medication (With Caution)
There are various over-the-counter teething gels and medications that can offer temporary relief for babies. These products often contain numbing agents like benzocaine or homeopathic ingredients such as chamomile. Before using any product, consult with your pediatrician to ensure it’s safe for your baby and age-appropriate. Also, be cautious when using gels that contain benzocaine, as they may not be recommended for infants due to potential side effects.
4. Offer a Cold, Damp Washcloth
A simple remedy that can work wonders is a cold, damp washcloth. Dampen the cloth with water and place it in the fridge for a little while, then let your baby chew on it. The cold will help numb the gums, and the texture of the cloth provides extra stimulation that can feel comforting.
5. Create a Calming Bedtime Routine
Teething pain can disrupt your baby's sleep schedule, making it even more important to establish a calming bedtime routine. Start winding things down with a warm bath, followed by quiet play, a soothing song, or a gentle story. A predictable routine helps signal to your baby that it's time to relax and sleep, making them feel secure despite their discomfort.
6. Consider Baby-Friendly Pain Relief (With Doctor Approval)
In some cases, over-the-counter pain relief options like infant acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can be used to ease your baby's teething discomfort. However, it’s important to only administer these medications after speaking with your pediatrician about proper dosage and safety guidelines. Never use adult pain relief medications, as they may be unsafe for babies.
7. Provide Extra Comfort and Reassurance
Sometimes, the best remedy is simply your presence. Teething can be distressing for your baby, and they may need extra comfort and reassurance during this time. Hold them, rock them, or give them extra cuddles to help them feel safe and loved. Sometimes the gentle touch of a parent can do wonders in calming an anxious or uncomfortable baby.
8. Maintain a Comfortable Sleep Environment
A consistent and comfortable sleep environment is essential for any baby, but especially so during the teething phase. Ensure the room is quiet, dimly lit, and at a comfortable temperature. A white noise machine can be helpful in blocking out household noises that might disturb your baby’s sleep, especially when they’re in discomfort.
9. Be Patient and Consistent
Teething is a phase that will eventually pass, but while it's happening, it’s important to be patient with both your baby and yourself. Consistency with comforting techniques and maintaining a calm bedtime routine will eventually help your baby learn to self-soothe and sleep through the discomfort. Remaining consistent will help maintain their sleep habits and get them back on track quicker once those teeth pop. Remember that while teething can be tough, it’s a temporary phase, and with time, things will get better.
In Conclusion
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents and unfortunately a phase that your little one will be in and out of for several months, even up to age 2. But with some thoughtful preparation and patience, you can help your little one get the rest they need. Whether it's offering a teething toy, using a cold washcloth, or simply providing more comfort and reassurance, the key is to find what works best for your baby. Above all, take comfort in knowing that this tough phase will eventually pass, and your baby will soon be back to sleeping soundly once again.
Remember: Always consult with your pediatrician if you're unsure about which methods or medications are best for your baby during teething. Every baby is different, and it's important to find what will keep them comfortable and happy during this time.
