Can teething be worse at night? This is a common question among parents who are dealing with their baby’s teething process. The answer is yes, teething can indeed be more challenging during the nighttime hours. Understanding why this might be the case can help parents navigate this difficult time more effectively.
Teething, the process of baby teeth erupting, typically begins around six months of age and can continue until around three years old. During this time, babies may experience discomfort, irritability, and disrupted sleep. While teething symptoms can occur at any time of the day, many parents notice that their baby’s teething pain seems to peak at night.
There are several reasons why teething might be worse at night. Firstly, babies are more sensitive to pain during the night due to their lower levels of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. Melatonin production decreases as the day progresses, making it easier for babies to fall asleep during the day and harder to stay asleep at night. This increased sensitivity to pain can make teething discomfort more noticeable during the nighttime hours.
Secondly, babies may be more irritable and restless at night due to their growing bodies. As they grow, their bodies require more energy, and this can lead to increased restlessness and discomfort. This restlessness can be exacerbated by teething pain, making it difficult for babies to settle down and fall asleep.
Another reason teething might be worse at night is that babies are more likely to seek comfort during the nighttime hours. Parents often notice that their baby’s teething symptoms worsen as the day progresses, but they may not be as aware of the discomfort during the night when they are sleeping. This can lead to a perception that teething is worse at night, as parents are more likely to notice and respond to their baby’s distress during this time.
To help alleviate teething discomfort at night, there are several strategies parents can try. Offering a teething toy or a cold washcloth can help soothe a baby’s sore gums. Gently massaging the baby’s gums with a clean finger or a cold spoon can also provide relief. Additionally, ensuring that the baby’s sleep environment is comfortable and that they are well-rested during the day can help reduce nighttime teething symptoms.
In conclusion, teething can indeed be worse at night due to increased sensitivity to pain, restlessness, and the heightened need for comfort. By understanding these factors and implementing appropriate strategies, parents can help their baby navigate the teething process more comfortably, both during the day and at night.
