Teething can turn even the best sleepers into midnight fussers.
If your baby is struggling to rest, you’re not alone.
Many parents wonder about the best sleeping position for a teething baby and whether changes can make things easier.
Some even ask, Do babies sleep more when teething?
While every baby reacts differently, there are gentle, safe ways to help them rest better, and we’re going to cover them here.
Do Babies Sleep More When Teething?
Teething can cause changes to your baby’s sleep, but most pediatricians agree that extra sleep isn’t a guaranteed sign of teething.
Some babies may sleep more, but many simply become fussier and have disrupted naps or nighttime rest.
If your child sleeps much longer than usual or seems overly lethargic, it’s best to check with your pediatrician to rule out illness.
Teething more often disrupts naps than nighttime sleep, leading to crankiness rather than longer stretches of rest.
Best Sleeping Position for Baby During Teething
The best sleeping position for a teething baby is on their back, following safe sleep guidelines.
Even if your little one seems uncomfortable, changing position for comfort can raise risks.
Back-sleeping significantly reduces the risk of SIDS and remains safest, even during teething.
If you feel your baby needs a little elevation, use a wedge under the crib mattress, not loose pillows, which is safer and sometimes helps with drooling or congestion.
Soothing Your Baby Before Bedtime
A calming bedtime routine can make a big difference for a teething baby.
- Give a warm bath to relax them, then try a gentle gum massage with a clean finger to ease discomfort.
- Offer a chilled (not frozen) teething-safe toy for them to gnaw on before sleep.
- Dimming the lights and keeping the environment quiet can also cue your child’s brain for rest, making transitions to sleep smoother.
Home Remedies and Comfort Aids that Help
Simple remedies can help soothe your baby’s teething pain, especially at bedtime. Here are some practical and effective home approaches to ease discomfort during this stage:
1. Chilled Washcloth
Dampen a soft, clean washcloth and place it in the refrigerator (not freezer) until cool.
Give it to your baby to chew on. This helps numb sore gums and offers gentle pressure that eases pain.
Always supervise your baby with this remedy to avoid choking.
2. Teething Rings or Pacifiers (Chilled)
Refrigerate a silicone teething ring or pacifier and let your baby gnaw on it.
The cold relieves gum swelling and can distract your child from discomfort.
Ensure any item used is made for teething and is free from small parts or liquid fillings.
3. Gum Massage
After thoroughly washing your hands, gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger.
The firm but gentle pressure can instantly soothe teething pain and may help teeth come in more easily.
Limit massages to a minute or two and repeat as needed.
4. Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding
Nursing or offering a bottle right before bed can comfort a teething baby.
The sucking motion can be soothing, and the closeness helps your child feel secure.
If your baby is refusing to feed because of sore gums, try offering a chilled teething ring first.
5. Frozen Fruit Mesh Feeders
For babies six months or older eating solids, place pieces of chilled or slightly frozen fruit (like banana or melon) into a mesh feeder.
This offers pain relief and introduces new tastes and textures. Always supervise to prevent choking and avoid large chunks.
6. Teething Gels (With Pediatrician’s Guidance)
Some parents find that teething gels, formulated specifically for infants, offer relief by lightly numbing the gums.
However, not all gels are safe; always ask your pediatrician before using, and never use adult oral gels, which can be harmful to infants.
7. Cold Spoons
Chill a metal teaspoon in the refrigerator and let your baby gently gnaw on the rounded end.
The coolness soothes the gums with minimal risk, and the smooth surface feels satisfying to a teething child.
Supervise closely and do not use if your baby already has several teeth to prevent damage.
Sleep Tips that Work During Teething
Even with teething discomfort, you can support your baby’s sleep routine using some proven tips.
- White Noise for Soothing: Playing consistent white noise creates a calming environment and helps block out fussing or discomfort cries.
It mimics the sounds of the womb and can make it easier for your baby to settle and return to sleep. - Consistent Nap Routine: Sticking to regular nap times during the day supports better nighttime sleep, even if your baby is restless from teething.
Predictable routines help your baby know when to expect sleep. - Extra Comfort: It’s normal to offer extra cuddles, rocking, or a gentle back rub when teething pain flares.
Just try to avoid starting new sleep habits, like rocking all the way to sleep every time, so your baby doesn’t rely on them. - Rule Out Other Causes: If sleep disruption is persistent, check for other issues like ear pulling, fever, or rash, which could signal an unrelated illness or ear infection. Addressing underlying problems ensures your baby gets the right care.
When to Call the Pediatrician
Contact your pediatrician if your baby develops a fever over 100.4°F (38°C), diarrhea, or if their discomfort seems excessive and nothing soothes them.
Sometimes what appears to be teething may signal another issue, especially if the pain lasts longer than a few days.
If your child has other health concerns or chronic illnesses, managing teething pain may require more personalized strategies from your doctor.
Typically, teething discomfort passes in a few days, so if the fussiness is lasting much longer, don’t hesitate to get a professional opinion.
Ending it!
Teething is tough for both babies and parents.
But sticking to safe sleeping positions, adding gentle soothing techniques, and understanding what’s normal can help.
If things feel off, don’t hesitate to talk to your pediatrician.
Every baby is different, and sometimes a little extra support goes a long way.
