Few things are more exhausting for parents than a baby who struggles to sleep through the night. When teething enters the picture, bedtime can become even more challenging. Fortunately, there are several ways to soothe your teething baby and make bedtime more comfortable. Here are some helpful tips to encourage better sleep during this developmental milestone.
Offer a Chilled Teething Toy
A simple way to relieve teething discomfort is to give your baby something cool to chew on. A chilled teething ring or soft teething toy can help soothe inflamed gums and provide temporary relief.
Place the teething toy in the refrigerator rather than the freezer as extremely cold objects can injure delicate gum tissue. Always supervise your baby while they’re using a teething toy, and choose products designed specifically for their age.
Gently Massage Your Baby’s Gums
Sometimes, a little extra comfort is all your baby needs to settle down. Gently rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger can help relieve pressure and soothe soreness.
Wash your hands thoroughly before starting, then use light pressure to massage the affected areas. This technique can be particularly helpful as part of your baby’s bedtime routine.
Establish a Calming Bedtime Routine
A consistent bedtime routine can help your baby recognize when it’s time to sleep, even when teething makes them uncomfortable.
Try incorporating a warm bath, gentle rocking, a quiet lullaby, or a bedtime story into your evening schedule. Keeping the room dark, quiet, and comfortably cool can also encourage better sleep.
If your baby wakes up during the night, offer reassurance and comfort while keeping nighttime interactions calm and predictable.
Try a Cool, Damp Washcloth
A clean, damp washcloth chilled in the refrigerator can provide another soothing option for sore gums. Allow your baby to chew on the cloth while supervised.
The cool temperature and gentle chewing pressure may temporarily ease discomfort. Make sure the washcloth is clean and free of loose threads and remove it when your baby is finished.
Ask Your Pediatrician About Pain Relief
If teething discomfort is interfering significantly with your baby’s sleep, talk with your pediatrician about appropriate pain relief.
Depending on your baby’s age and medical history, your pediatrician may recommend an appropriate medication and dosage. Avoid using teething gels containing benzocaine or lidocaine, as well as homeopathic teething products, unless specifically directed by a qualified healthcare professional.
Remember that fever, diarrhea, and significant illness aren’t typical teething symptoms. Contact your pediatrician if your baby develops a fever or seems unusually unwell.
As your baby’s teeth begin to emerge, remember that oral health becomes increasingly important. Once the first tooth appears, start brushing twice daily with a soft infant toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste.
About the Practice
Some dental practices may only be comfortable seeing school-aged children; we’re not one of them! Our team of dentists at Purdy Pediatric Dentistry welcomes little ones by the time their first tooth comes in or by the age of 1. We’ll give them a thorough examination and offer guidance on at-home care for your precious baby. Contact us online or call our Bakersfield office at (661) 832-5530.