Teething & Sleep
Are you thinking about sleep training but worried that teething will undo all your hard work? Let’s break it down.
If you’re hesitant to start sleep training, here’s some good news: all children will cut teeth until around 2.5 to 3 years old, with the big back molars coming in last. Teething happens in waves and phases, so if you wait until it’s all over, you could be waiting a long time! Unless your child is actively cutting a tooth, there’s no reason to delay sleep training. If they are in pain, consider waiting 2-7 days until things settle down.
Teething Pain
Teething pain is unique to each child because everyone has a different pain threshold. Some babies are very sensitive to the movement of teeth in their gums, while others aren’t bothered until the tooth is actually breaking through. My kids’ pediatric dentist explained that the most pain occurs just before the tooth erupts, as pressure builds under the gums. Once the tooth breaks through, the pain usually eases.
If your child is in this phase, it’s best to wait until the tooth emerges before starting sleep training.
When is a Good Time to Start Sleep Training?
The ideal time to start is when your child isn’t actively teething. Look for a phase where they’re not currently cutting a tooth.
Will Teething Undo All My Hard Work?
Thankfully, the answer is NO! I’m a mom of two, ages three and one, and I’ve never had to retrain them. But what can you do on tough days when your child needs extra support, but you don’t want to return to bedsharing or assisting them to sleep?
Let’s Break It Down!
Resets
Resets work wonders for my kids and many others. A reset is a great tool to help regulate your child. Take them out of their sleep space and hold, rock, or offer a quick feed for about 10 minutes. You can also apply more teething remedies or medication (if approved by your healthcare provider). Once they’re calm, place them back in their crib and offer a little more soothing.
Key point: Don’t leave them alone during times of pain. Children need emotional and physical support when they’re uncomfortable.
Anti-Inflammatory Support
I’ve seen a big difference in my children’s teething pain when I use anti-inflammatory remedies. Reducing inflammation can lead to better nights.
Here are Some Tips That Have Worked for Us
Teething toys
Frozen mashed fruit
Fruit ice pops
Cold celery sticks
Cold pineapple sticks
Gum massages
Teething oils
What About Medication?
Medication can be a sensitive topic. Always consult your pediatrician about pain relief options. As a registered RN, I offer my kids Motrin when teething pain becomes intense. Motrin is anti-inflammatory and has been the most effective for us.
What to Expect for Sleep
Sleep might be disrupted for a few nights while your little one is cutting a tooth—especially molars, which can be challenging! During this time, remember that your child needs extra comfort. They may cry more and cling to you, and that’s perfectly okay. You are their safe place.
What if We Slip Into a Regression?
If you find yourself in a regression due to extra support or even bedsharing, don’t worry. You can retrain in just a few days. If your child has been sleep-trained before, they have a solid foundation, making it easier to get back on track. Even if you start training shortly after a tooth cuts through, your child can learn independent sleep skills.
If you need a refresher, a quick SOS call could be just what you need! You can book one using the link below 👇
https://www.independentsleepers.com/sos-call
If you’re considering sleep training but aren’t sure where to begin, book a free discovery call to learn more about my approach to successful sleep training before, during, and after teething phases.
Lots of love,
Selina
Founder and Head Sleep Consultant
