How to keep breastfeeding when baby has teeth?

Navigating Breastfeeding with a Teething Baby
Breastfeeding is a cherished experience for many mothers and their infants, but the arrival of teeth can introduce new challenges. As babies typically begin teething around six months, parents may wonder if they need to alter their breastfeeding practices. Fortunately, with the right techniques and understanding, mothers can continue to breastfeed comfortably even as their babies develop teeth.
Understanding Teething and Its Impact on Breastfeeding
Teething can be a discomforting time for babies, often leading to changes in their behavior during breastfeeding. While some parents fear that their baby might bite, many babies with teeth do not exhibit this behavior. In fact, teething should not significantly disrupt the breastfeeding relationship. Experts suggest that the natural instinct of babies to latch deeply and use their tongues effectively cushions the nipple from any potential biting.
Maintaining a Good Latch
One of the most crucial aspects of breastfeeding, especially when teeth are involved, is ensuring that the baby has a proper latch. A good latch means that the baby’s mouth is wide open, with their tongue positioned over their lower gums. This positioning helps to protect the nipple and minimizes the risk of biting. Mothers are encouraged to monitor their baby’s latch closely and make adjustments as necessary. If a baby is teething, they may inadvertently change their latch or position to avoid discomfort, which can lead to nipple pain.
Strategies for Comfort
To enhance comfort during breastfeeding sessions, mothers can employ several strategies:
1. Experiment with Positions: Different breastfeeding positions can help alleviate discomfort. Some mothers find that changing the way they hold their baby can reduce friction on sore areas.
2. Stay Vigilant: Keeping an eye on the baby’s behavior during feeding is essential. If a baby seems to be getting fidgety or is about to bite, gently removing them from the breast can help.
3. Respond to Teething Discomfort: If a baby is particularly uncomfortable due to teething, they may be more likely to bite. Offering a teething toy before breastfeeding can help soothe their gums and make them less likely to seek relief through biting.
4. Encourage Deep Latching: Reinforcing the importance of a deep latch can help protect against biting. When a baby latches correctly, their tongue covers their lower teeth, which can prevent accidental bites.
The Emotional Connection
Beyond the physical aspects, breastfeeding remains a vital emotional connection between mother and child. It provides comfort and reassurance during a time when babies may feel irritable due to teething. Continuing to breastfeed not only offers nutritional benefits but also strengthens the bond between mother and baby.
In conclusion, while the arrival of teeth can pose challenges for breastfeeding, it is entirely possible to maintain this important aspect of nurturing. By focusing on proper latching techniques, being attentive to the baby’s needs, and adapting feeding positions, mothers can successfully navigate this phase without having to stop breastfeeding.

Do babies struggle to nurse when teething?

Signs of teething
Some of the signs that parents report include: Changes in the way a baby latches on to the breast: feeding your baby may start to be uncomfortable, or she may change the position of her mouth or head, or her latch may just feel a bit different.

How to feed when baby is teething?

Plain yogurt, pureed meat, mashed veggies and fruit are all good options because your baby doesn’t have to chew them. Frozen fruits, veggies or breastmilk in a mesh feeder. Fill it with frozen fruit (like bananas and peaches) or frozen pureed veggies (like broccoli and carrots) to soothe baby’s sensitive gums.

Do babies reduce feeding when teething?

2) Loss of appetite: Sore gums can make feeding tough! During teething your little one might seem to be less hungry than usual or reject their feed.

How long does teething fussiness last?

Each tooth takes about 1 to 7 days to break through the gum, but the discomfort associated with this process can start a few days before this and then for a few days after. So, for each tooth, the teething process could potentially last for up to a week or two.

What is the 3 month breastfeeding crisis?

These increases occur around the same time for all babies, hence the term “3-months breastfeeding crisis”. This crisis is the most well-known because it is the most challenging for mothers. One reason is that this crisis, unlike others you may experience before, can last up to a month.

How to help nipples when baby is teething?

Some mothers say that their baby’s saliva changes during teething and this irritates their nipples. If you feel this kind of soreness, try rinsing your nipple area after feeds with a little bicarbonate of soda dissolved in water (approximately 1 teaspoon to 1 cup). You could also bathe your breast in salty water.

How to unlatch a baby with teeth?

If your baby has sprouted a tooth and you are concerned that they may nip you as a feeding ends: Keep your finger ready to break the suction and remove your breast as soon as her rhythmic suckling stops (and before she starts to drift off or feel playful).

How to unlatch when baby has teeth?

If your baby has sprouted a tooth and you are concerned that they may nip you as a feeding ends: Keep your finger ready to break the suction and remove your breast as soon as her rhythmic suckling stops (and before she starts to drift off or feel playful).

Do babies struggle to feed when teething?

It is completely normal for teething to affect your baby’s eating habits. Their little mouths are hurting and they may not feel like eating. They may lose weight and put it back on once the phase is over. If you are worried, check in with your pediatrician.

How do you breastfeed when a baby has teeth?

Offer a frozen wet washcloth or a wet washcloth wrapped around an ice cube. These may help numb gums, allowing your baby to latch and settle into the feeding before the gums become painful again. Do some hand expression before latching to get the milk flowing. It may help your baby settle into feeding more quickly.