Teething marks a developmental stage when a baby’s first teeth emerge. This process typically starts around 6 months, though it can vary from 3 months to a year. Babies are born with 20 primary teeth, which continue to erupt until about age three. Many parents observe that teething discomfort intensifies at night, disrupting sleep for the baby and family. This common concern prompts a closer look into why nighttime is particularly challenging.
Recognizing Nighttime Teething
Specific signs indicate nighttime teething discomfort. Common indicators include increased fussiness, irritability, and crying, often leading to disrupted sleep. Babies might also exhibit excessive drooling, chew on objects more frequently, or experience swollen and tender gums. Sometimes, a mild fever below 100.4°F (38°C) may be present, along with a flushed cheek where a tooth is erupting. These symptoms, while present during the day, become more pronounced and distressing when the baby tries to rest.
Reasons for Increased Nighttime Discomfort
Nighttime teething symptoms worsen due to physiological and behavioral factors. During the day, babies are stimulated by activities and surroundings, distracting them from discomfort. As evening approaches and external stimuli decrease, pain signals become more prominent due to less distraction. This reduced distraction makes the baby more acutely aware of gum soreness and pressure.
Physiologically, lying down might increase blood flow to the gums, potentially exacerbating inflammation and pain. A baby’s pain threshold may also decrease when tired, making them more sensitive to discomfort. Circadian rhythms influence pain perception, with sensitivity fluctuating throughout a 24-hour cycle. The quiet of the night and absence of daytime routines remove usual comforts, making the sensation of a tooth pushing through the gum a more central experience for the infant.
Soothing Your Baby During Night Teething
Several strategies can comfort a baby experiencing nighttime teething discomfort. Gently massaging the baby’s gums with a clean finger offers direct relief by applying counter-pressure. Offering chilled, solid teething toys or a cool, wet washcloth for the baby to chew on can help numb the sore area and reduce inflammation. For babies old enough to consume solids, cool foods like yogurt or applesauce also provide a soothing sensation.
Over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be administered according to age and weight guidelines to manage pain and reduce inflammation, especially before bedtime. Consistent bedtime routines, including a warm bath and gentle rocking or cuddling, help calm the baby and prepare them for sleep. Ensuring a quiet and dark sleeping environment further aids in promoting rest. Avoid teething jewelry, like amber necklaces, due to choking hazards.
Seeking Professional Advice
While teething is normal, parents should recognize signs warranting medical attention. If a baby develops a high fever (above 100.4°F/38°C), experiences persistent refusal to feed, or has severe diarrhea, these symptoms are typically not caused by teething alone. Prolonged, inconsolable crying that does not respond to typical soothing measures also suggests a need for medical evaluation. Consulting a healthcare professional can help rule out other potential illnesses or conditions contributing to discomfort. A doctor can also provide guidance on appropriate pain management if typical remedies are insufficient.