Teething can be an uncomfortable experience for any baby, but it can be especially difficult for breastfed babies. As babies’ teeth begin erupting from the gums, they may become more agitated and fussy than usual. This can make it hard for mom and dad to tell if their little one is just having a bad day or is in the throes of teething.
Knowing the signs of teething can help parents prepare for and manage whatever comes their way.
Common Signs of Teething in Breastfed Babies
Below are some common signs that your baby may be teething:
• Drooling – Increased salivation usually begins around 2-3 months before the first tooth emerges. To keep skin around your baby’s mouth from becoming irritated, use a bib or soft cloth to keep them dry as much as possible.
• Sucking – Babies will often chew on their fingers, toys, or anything else they can get their hands on when they are teething. This is a normal response to sore gums, so try offering your baby something cold and safe to chew on like a pacifier filled with frozen fruit puree or a wet washcloth that has been cooled in the fridge.
• Fussiness – If your usually happy and content baby becomes increasingly fussy and irritable during feedings, this could be a sign that they are teething. If this happens while breastfeeding, gently massage their sore gums with your finger to provide relief before resuming feeding.
• Chewing – If you notice your baby chewing on his or her tongue while nursing, this could also mean that they are trying to soothe swollen gums by chewing on something cold (like milk). Offer them something cold like a chilled teether for relief instead of letting them continue chewing on their tongue.
• Refusal To Nurse – Another common symptom of teething is when your baby refuses to nurse due to swollen gums being painful during feedings. Offering them something cold prior to nursing may help reduce discomfort and encourage them back into feeding mode again.
Conclusion
No matter how old your little one is, knowing the signs of teething in breastfed babies can help you better prepare for what’s ahead and manage any fussiness or discomfort that may come along with it! While these symptoms might not always indicate teething, keeping an eye out for these signs might help you determine if it’s time for those pearly whites to make an appearance!
