Teething

Teething is one of the most common causes of frequent night waking during the second six months and through the second year. It can also cause fussy nursing behavior, as some babies experience gum discomfort with sucking. Baby might start to nurse, but then pull off and cry or fuss and not want to nurse anymore. Other babies nurse nearly constantly because the nursing is soothing to them.

Some things that help teething babies:

"Anesthetize" baby's gums with a frozen/refrigerated teething ring, or rub ice cube on his gums (you can even make a game of it). Try to get baby to nurse. If he pulls off/screams again, repeat the ice-rub.
Put some crushed ice into a clean baby sock and tie off the top. Since it can "mold" around the gum, this is often helpful for painful teething. The fabric is easy and comfortable for baby to handle and babies like the texture of the fabric, too.
Freeze or refrigerate a wet wash cloth for baby to chew on.
Talk to your baby's doctor about using a baby pain reliever 30-45 minutes before nursing.
Some babies are helped by homeopathic teething tablets.
Avoid using Orajel/benzocaine (or other topical anesthetics) directly prior to breastfeeding, as it numbs baby's mouth and can make breastfeeding very difficult for baby.
Teething babies occasionally bite; if your baby bites, see When Baby Bites.
Here are some tips in case baby refuses to nurse due to teething pain.

Moms of teething babies sometimes get sore nipples from baby's gumming or "chewing" from discomfort (see above link on biting) or due to the increased saliva that comes with teething.

Additional information

Teething from AskDrSears.com

How to Care for Your Baby's Teeth from familydoctor.org

Page last modified: 07/09/2005
Written: 2/8/03

Disclaimer: All material on this website is provided for educational purposes only, although every effort is made to provide accurate and up-to-date information. Unless otherwise noted, the articles at this website are not written by doctors or other health care professionals. If you are concerned about your health, or that of your child, consult with your health care provider regarding the advisability of any opinions or recommendations with respect to your individual situation.

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