Manage teething-related sleep disruption

Teething discomfort often intensifies at night when there are fewer distractions, causing babies to wake more frequently, resist falling asleep, or have shorter naps. Sleep disruption tends to peak in the 2-3 days before and after a tooth erupts, then resolves.

What to Look For

• Night waking in a baby who previously slept through
• Difficulty settling at bedtime despite being tired
• Shorter naps or early wake-ups
• Fussing or crying when laid down that is soothed by gum pressure or comfort

What to Do

1. Maintain your bedtime routine -- consistency helps babies resettle even during discomfort.
2. Offer gum relief before bed -- gently rub gums with a clean finger or provide a chilled washcloth to chew on before laying baby down.
3. Provide brief comfort for night waking -- soothe with patting or quiet words, but try to avoid introducing new sleep habits you will need to undo later.
4. Ask your pediatrician about pain relief if sleep is severely disrupted -- an age-appropriate dose of acetaminophen before bed may help on the worst nights.

Tips

• Sleep disruption from teething is temporary -- avoid drastic changes to sleep routines that may be hard to reverse
• Always follow safe sleep guidelines -- place baby on their back in a bare crib, even during teething discomfort
• If sleep problems persist beyond a week, consult your pediatrician to rule out ear infections or other causes