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Teething in breastfed babies can turn happy feeding times into challenging moments. Teething symptoms include swollen gums and increased irritability, impacting both baby and mom.
This article offers insights on identifying signs of teething in babies and practical strategies for easing the discomfort of breastfeeding infants.
Keep reading for helpful tips on nursing a teething baby.
Key Takeaways
- Teething usually starts around six months but can happen earlier or later. It causes swollen gums and makes feeding times challenging.
- Common symptoms include drooling, biting, low-grade fever, and fussiness due to discomfort from new teeth breaking through the gums.
- To soothe a teething baby while breastfeeding, use a proper latch technique, offer chilled toys or cold compresses, and watch for signs of excess discomfort or infection needing medical attention.
What is Teething, and When Does it Begin?
Teething is when a baby’s teeth begin to break through the gums. This usually starts around six months of age, but it can happen earlier or later for some babies.
Definition of Teething
Teething refers to a baby’s teeth emerging through the gums. This development usually occurs between six and twelve months, although every child differs.
As new teeth push through, swollen, tender gums become common. Signs such as irritability and disrupted sleep often accompany this stage.
Breastfeeding may change during teething due to discomfort in your baby’s mouth. A nursing infant might instinctively alter their latch or position to avoid pain from sore gums.
Some parents notice drooling increases significantly during this time, another common symptom of infant teething.
Low-grade fever and cheek rubbing also indicate teething discomfort in breastfed babies, making this phase challenging for both mother and child.
Common Age Range for Teething to Start
Teething typically begins between six months and one year of age. Around this time, most babies start to show symptoms such as swollen, tender gums. Some may even begin teething earlier, as early as four months old.
The first to emerge are usually the two lower front teeth (central incisors), followed by the upper central incisors.
As babies approach their first birthday, they can have eight teeth coming in. Every child is different; some may experience teething pain earlier or later than others. Signs of teething in exclusively breastfed babies include irritability, disrupted sleep patterns, and increased drooling.
These signs often coincide with the arrival of new teeth and highlight how breastfeeding and teething discomfort intertwine during this developmental phase for mothers navigating through these changes with their little ones.
Signs and Symptoms of Teething in Breastfed Babies
Teething can make babies fussy and uncomfortable. They may drool, chew on their toys, or rub their cheeks frequently.
Irritability
Irritability is a common symptom in breastfed babies during the teething process. Many parents notice their little ones become fussier and more prone to crying as new teeth break through the gums.
This discomfort stems from swollen, tender gums that can make breastfeeding challenging. Due to this irritability, a baby may also exhibit disrupted sleep patterns, which can further affect their overall mood.
Some infants might seek comfort through breastfeeding more frequently, while others may avoid nursing altogether if it aggravates their sore gums. Mothers must be aware of these changes in behavior and adjust accordingly when managing teething pain in nursing infants.
Recognizing these signs helps mother and baby navigate this developmental stage with understanding and care. Next, let’s explore other signs and symptoms of teething in breastfed babies.
Drooling
Drooling is a common symptom of teething in breastfed babies. As new teeth push through the gums, you may notice your baby drooling more than usual. This increased saliva production often leads to wet clothes and bibs throughout the day.
It can also contribute to skin rashes around the mouth if not appropriately managed.
While drooling isn’t harmful, it can indicate that your baby is experiencing discomfort from swollen or tender gums. Some parents find that this extra moisture changes their baby’s nursing experience.
A teething baby might sometimes avoid nursing due to sensitive gums but may also want to nurse more frequently for comfort during painful episodes.
Using teething toys or cold compresses can help manage some discomfort while breastfeeding a teething baby becomes a priority during such challenging phases.
Skin Rashes
Skin rashes can occur in breastfed babies as they teethe. Excessive drooling associated with teething often irritates the skin around the mouth and chin, leading to red, inflamed patches.
As saliva increases during this stage, tender areas often develop. Keeping the baby clean and dry helps prevent these rashes from worsening.
Swollen gums may also contribute to discomfort that results in fussy behavior. Due to pain or irritation, babies might rub their cheeks and pull on their ears.
While these behaviors are typical signs of teething symptoms in exclusively breastfed babies, mothers must monitor any changes closely.
Coping strategies include employing soft cloths or bibs to manage drool while ensuring gentle care of irritated skin.
These methods can provide relief alongside other remedies for managing discomfort during this development phase.
Moving forward, consider how teething affects breastfeeding comfort next.
Coughing
Coughing can be a symptom of teething in breastfed babies. Increased drooling often accompanies this, leading to irritation in the throat. As babies produce more saliva while teething, it may trickle down and cause coughing fits.
Fussiness is expected during this time, which may result in restless sleep for both baby and mother.
Breastfeeding could change due to discomfort from sore gums. Keep an eye on your baby’s behavior when nursing; any aversion or constant desire to nurse might indicate they are dealing with teething pain.
Soothing teething remedies for breastfed babies can help alleviate symptoms like coughing and maintain peaceful breastfeeding sessions.
Biting and Gnawing
Coughing can be a symptom that accompanies teething, but another expected behavior observed in teething babies is biting and gnawing. Babies instinctively bite and chew on anything they can get their hands on to relieve the discomfort from swollen and tender gums.
This reaction helps soothe the pain as new teeth push through.
Breastfeeding may change during this phase. Some babies might latch differently or tug more forcefully while nursing due to sore gums, and mothers may experience nursing discomfort as a result.
Offering chilled teething rings or gently massaging the baby’s gums can provide effective teething relief for breastfed babies, making the experience more comfortable for both mother and child.
Low Grade Fever
A low-grade fever is a common symptom in teething babies. You may notice your baby’s temperature slightly rising, especially when a new tooth breaks through the gums. This mild increase in temperature usually ranges from 99°F to 100.4°F and can be alarming for some parents.
Breastfed babies sometimes experience this fever alongside other signs of teething. Fussiness, crying, and swollen gums often accompany it as well. The discomfort from teething might lead your little one to seek comfort through nursing more frequently or changing their usual latch while breastfeeding.
Cheek Rubbing and Ear Pulling
Cheek rubbing and ear pulling are common signs of teething in breastfed babies. Babies often rub their cheeks or pull on their ears to cope with the discomfort caused by swollen, tender gums.
This behavior can be quite noticeable, especially when new teeth break through the gums. Irritability may also accompany these actions, making it clear that your little one feels uncomfortable.
Drooling frequently occurs alongside cheek rubbing and ear pulling. The excess saliva can irritate the skin around the mouth and chin, sometimes leading to rashes if not cleaned properly.
Breastfeeding might change during this time, too; some babies may prefer certain positions to avoid pressure on sore areas in their mouths, while others might want to nurse more often for comfort despite nursing discomfort caused by teething symptoms like swollen gums.
Diarrhea
Teething can also lead to diarrhea in some breastfed babies. This may result from increased saliva production and swallowing excess drool. Parents might notice changes in their baby’s stool consistency during this time.
While mild diarrhea is common, it can concern parents about hydration.
Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and helps maintain fluid balance during teething discomfort. Monitoring any signs of dehydration is crucial, especially if the diarrhea persists or worsens.
If a baby experiences significant changes in bowel movements and other symptoms, it’s wise to discuss these concerns with a pediatrician for guidance on managing teething symptoms effectively.
Coping Strategies for Breastfeeding a Teething Baby
Use a proper latch during feeding to keep your baby comfortable. Teething toys or cold compresses can help soothe sore gums while nursing.
Proper Latch
A proper latch is essential for breastfeeding comfort, especially when your baby is teething. Teething symptoms can cause swollen, tender gums that may change how your baby latches.
Many mothers notice their baby adjusting their position or breaking the latch more often to avoid discomfort from their sore gums. Keeping an eye on your baby’s tongue can help; it should extend beyond the bottom gum to draw in the nipple effectively.
Maintaining a good latch helps ensure you and your baby are comfortable while nursing through the teething phases. If you notice any signs of disrupted feeding behavior or increased fussiness, check if your baby’s latch has changed due to teething discomfort.
Nurses’ constant desire might indicate they are trying to soothe sore gums, but caution is needed as some babies may avoid nursing altogether due to pain.
Finding ways to ease teething discomfort will help improve the breastfeeding experience for both of you. Consider using chilled teething rings or gently massaging those tender gums as soothing options before diving into communication strategies with your little one.
Managing Discomfort Through Teething Toys or Cold Compresses
Teething can cause discomfort for breastfed babies, leading to irritability and fussiness. Teething toys serve as an adequate remedy. Look for safe options made of soft materials your baby can chew on.
Chilled teething rings provide extra relief by soothing swollen gums. These toys distract and help ease the pain associated with new teeth pushing through.
Cold compresses are another simple solution for managing discomfort. Applying a clean, cold cloth to your baby’s gums temporarily reduces inflammation and numbs soreness. Massaging their cheeks or gums may also offer comfort during this challenging time.
These strategies enhance the breastfeeding experience, making it easier for mothers to navigate nursing while their little ones are teething.
Communicating With Your Baby
Understanding teething symptoms in breastfed babies involves more than just recognizing physical signs. Babies often communicate discomfort through fussiness and crying, indicating they may be experiencing sore gums.
Observing your baby’s reactions during breastfeeding can also provide insight. A change in their latch or a preference for certain positions may reveal that they are trying to avoid hitting swollen areas in their mouth.
Close attention to your baby’s cues is essential. Increased irritability or disrupted sleep patterns can signify that teething discomfort is significantly affecting them. Maintaining open communication with your little one helps you respond effectively to their needs during this challenging development phase.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Watch for signs of excessive discomfort in your baby. A persistent fever or signs of infection should prompt a call to the doctor.
Excessive Discomfort
Excessive discomfort during teething can be distressing for both babies and mothers. Signs of teething in breastfed babies include irritability, disrupted sleep, and swollen or inflamed gums.
Babies may also show increased fussiness or cry more often when experiencing significant pain from their emerging teeth. This discomfort might push them to change their nursing behavior, leading to a constant desire to nurse or avoidance of breastfeeding altogether.
Some parents notice that their baby’s temperature may rise slightly as a new tooth enters the gums.
This can add to the concern about excessive discomfort during this time. Mothers must observe these signs closely and consider using remedies like chilled teething rings or gentle gum massages.
These methods can offer temporary relief while ensuring the breastfeeding experience remains comfortable for both mother and baby amidst all the changes related to teething symptoms in breastfed babies.
Persistent Fever
A persistent fever in a teething baby can be concerning for mothers. A slight increase in temperature is standard when a new tooth is on its way through the gum. However, if the fever continues or becomes high, it may signal something more serious.
Teething symptoms such as swollen, tender gums often accompany irritability and crying, but these do not usually cause significant fevers.
Monitoring your baby’s overall behavior is crucial during this time. If your little one seems excessively uncomfortable along with a persistent fever, seeking medical attention is essential.
Signs of infection could be present rather than just typical teething discomfort. Always trust your instincts as a mother; you know your baby best during this challenging phase of teething and nursing discomfort.
Signs of Infection
Signs of infection can occur alongside teething symptoms in breastfed babies. If your baby has a persistent fever, it could indicate something more than just teething discomfort. Swollen gums may also contribute to infection risks.
Excessive irritability and crying can signal that your baby is not just experiencing normal teething pain but potentially fighting an illness. Monitor for any unusual changes, such as increased fussiness or lethargy.
Always consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect an infection. Keeping track of these signs ensures that you stay informed about your baby’s health during this challenging time of understanding teething symptoms in breastfed babies.
Conclusion
Teething can be a challenging phase for both babies and mothers. Recognizing the symptoms allows you to provide comfort during this time. Use gentle remedies to ease your baby’s discomfort while continuing breastfeeding.
Stay vigilant for any signs of excessive distress or illness, ensuring your little one gets the necessary care. With love and understanding, your support will help them through this natural development stage.
FAQs
1. What are teething symptoms in breastfed babies?
Teething symptoms in breastfed babies can include fussiness, drooling, and a decreased appetite for milk.
2. How does breastfeeding affect a baby’s teething process?
Breastfeeding can soothe a teething baby as the act of nursing provides comfort, but some babies may nurse less due to discomfort caused by swollen gums.
3. Can I understand my baby’s teething symptoms better?
Yes, understanding your baby’s behavior changes like increased fussiness or reduced interest in milk can help identify when they’re going through the teething process.
4. Are there any special considerations for breastfed babies during teething?
During teething, it is important to monitor your breastfed baby’s feeding habits closely to ensure they continue getting enough nutrition despite potential discomfort from their new teeth coming in.