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what you need to know about teething and common misconceptions
You may begin to notice your baby's first teeth erupting around 6 months; however this can range from as early as 2-3 months to as late as a year! Actually, my daughter's first babysitter's third child didn't get their first until almost 18 months.
Babies naturally want to put things in their mouth. This is how they explore and learn about their environment, including sucking on their hands. This does not necessarily mean they are teething. Drooling also does not necessarily mean they are teething. Around 2-3 months, their third set of salivary glands are maturing, so excessive drooling naturally comes with it. Combine that with learning about their environment at that age, it's no wonder your mother-in-law is trying to convince you your baby is teething!
Another common misconception is that teething pain lasts for weeks. Symptoms should only be present about 72 hours before the tooth cuts through the gums, the day it cuts, and about three days after. Therefore, it is only about 7-8 days that true teething pain exists, unless of course there are consecutive teeth coming in.
research on teething
According to this research study, the following symptoms are associated with teething.
biting
drooling
rubbing gums
sucking
irritability
wakefulness
ear-rubbing
facial rash
decreased interest in solids
mild temperature elevation
However, these symptoms were not significantly associated with teething
congestion
sleep disturbance
loose stool
increased frequency of bowel movements
decreased appetite for liquids
cough
rashes other than on their face
fever over 102 degrees F
vomiting
If your baby is demonstrating these symptoms, it's unlikely to be teething related and you should consult with their pediatrician.
why does it seem to be worse at night?
During the day, your baby is distracted and less focused on the teething symptoms. They are feedings, drinking, mouthing items, and sucking on their fingers which alleviates symptoms, which isn't happening at night (besides sucking on their fingers). It is also thought that when they are lying flat, there is increased pressure in the head. This does not mean you should elevate their mattress or sleep sitting up with them. We still want to keep safe sleep practices in mind!
how can you help?
teething toys
cold washcloth to chew on
massage the gums
offer comfort (babywear, hold, contact nap, nurse/feed)
give pain relievers if needed - teething pain is due to inflammation in the gums. Babies older than 6 months benefit best from Motrin while babies under 6 months should have Tylenol.
avoid amber necklaces and teething gels as both are considered to be unsafe
what if you have a great sleeper who is suddenly having a hard time?
If your baby has a solid sleep foundation and they are suddenly waking in the night and intensely crying, it is very likely not teething. This is more likely to be a sign of illness.
If it is teething, consistency is important! Still offer normal sleep - routine, bedtime, and response.
If they are struggling with pain though, comfort them! Deviating from the norm if that's what they really need will not ruin everything. Once the tooth cuts, just go right back to what you were doing before. There may be a few days of protest, but their sleep will return back to normal.
And remember, most babies with a solid sleep foundation are unbothered by teething at night! Every baby is different though, so go with your gut and reach out for advice if you need it.
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