Teething is one of those parenting milestones that nobody warns you about quite enough. Just when you feel like sleep is becoming more predictable, a new tooth arrives and everything goes sideways. If your baby is waking more than usual, harder to settle, and generally unhappy at night, teething could well be the culprit. Here is what you need to know and what you can actually do about it.
When Does Teething Start?
Most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months, though some start earlier and others later. The first teeth to arrive are usually the bottom front teeth, followed by the top front teeth. Teething can continue on and off until your child is around 2 to 3 years old, so having strategies in place is worthwhile for the long haul. The NHS has helpful guidance on teething symptoms and remedies if you want to read more.
Why Does Teething Disrupt Sleep?
Teething causes inflammation and soreness in the gums, which can be more noticeable at night when there are fewer distractions. Babies who have been sleeping well may suddenly start waking more frequently, taking longer to settle, or waking earlier in the morning. The discomfort tends to come in waves, often peaking in the days just before a tooth breaks through. If your baby has been through a sleep regression before, teething disruption can feel similar but is usually shorter-lived.
How to Help a Teething Baby Sleep
Offer Comfort Before Bed
If your baby seems uncomfortable, address the discomfort before starting the bedtime routine rather than after. A teething ring that has been cooled in the fridge (not the freezer) can help soothe sore gums. Always follow the manufacturer's guidance and check with your health visitor or GP before using any teething gels or remedies.
Keep the Bedtime Routine Consistent
Routine is your best friend during teething. Even when your baby is unsettled, going through the same sequence of events signals that sleep is coming. A warm bath can be particularly soothing when gums are inflamed.
Use a Comforter
A familiar comforter can be enormously helpful during teething. Babies often want to stroke and twiddle something soft and soothing when they are uncomfortable, and a muslin comforter with a satin edge gives them exactly that. Because the comforter is already associated with sleep and security, it can help your baby self-soothe back to sleep even when they are a little more unsettled than usual. Read more about why babies stroke fabric to self-soothe and why the satin edge makes such a difference.
Respond Calmly to Night Wakings
During teething, your baby may need a little more reassurance at night. Try to respond calmly and keep night interactions brief and low-stimulation. Avoid introducing new sleep associations if you can, as these can be tricky to move away from once the tooth has come through.
Pain Relief if Needed
If your baby is clearly in significant discomfort, infant paracetamol or ibuprofen (if they are old enough) can help. Always follow the dosage guidance on the packaging and speak to your pharmacist or GP if you are unsure. The NCT has useful advice on managing teething discomfort safely.
How Long Does Teething Sleep Disruption Last?
The worst of the disruption usually lasts a few days around the time a tooth is breaking through. Once the tooth is through, most babies return to their usual sleep patterns fairly quickly. If sleep disruption continues for more than a couple of weeks without a tooth appearing, it is worth speaking to your health visitor to rule out other causes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my baby is waking because of teething?
Signs of teething include increased drooling, chewing on hands or objects, red or swollen gums, and general irritability. However, teething does not cause fever, so if your baby has a high temperature, seek medical advice.
Can a comforter help a teething baby sleep?
Yes. A familiar comforter provides sensory comfort and reassurance, which can help a teething baby self-soothe. The soft fabric and satin edge of a Bullabaloo comforter gives babies something gentle to hold and stroke as they settle. Read our guide on how to help your baby self-soothe for more tips.
Should I give my baby a teething ring at night?
Teething rings are best used during the day under supervision. At night, focus on comfort through routine, reassurance, and a familiar comforter rather than introducing objects into the sleep space.
Will teething ruin my baby's sleep long term?
No. Teething disruption is temporary. With consistent routines and a familiar comforter to support self-soothing, most babies return to their usual sleep patterns once the tooth is through.