Teething is a big milestone when it comes to your baby’s development! It can be an exciting time that may also bring some challenges as well.^1,2  When you’re directly breastfeeding, you may be wondering how those tiny teeth could affect your nursing journey. Here are some tips and tricks to help you navigate this stage with ease.

When Do Baby Teeth Happen?^3,4,5,6

• Your baby will usually start teething around 6 months of age but those first teeth can erupt as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. 
• Usually the two bottom teeth appear first and then the two top teeth a couple months later.

Signs of Teething^3,4,5,6

• Drooling like crazy! You’ll probably be using bibs to keep your baby from being wet all day.
• Chewing and gnawing on everything in sight, including your baby’s own hands.
• Swollen or tender gums from those tiny teeth pushing through. 
• Fussiness or crankiness from having uncomfortable gums and being in pain.
• Changes in feeding rhythms. Some babies want to breastfeed more often for comfort while others might pull away due to gum sensitivity.
• Rubbing ears or cheeks on the same side where a tooth is coming in.
• A low-grade fever can sometimes happen during teething.

Can You Still Breastfeed While Baby is Teething?

Absolutely! Teething doesn’t mean you have to stop breastfeeding.^3,4,5,6 Many babies find comfort in nursing because the sucking motion can soothe their sore gums. However, some challenges might pop up, like biting or changes in feeding patterns. 

How to Handle Biting^3,4,5,6

• Stay Calm: If your baby bites, try not to react too loudly (although it may surprise you!). Babies can get scared or think it’s funny and bite again.
• Watch for Signs: Babies often bite when they’re done nursing or just playing around. Pay attention to when they seem full or distracted and gently unlatch them.
• Offer Teething Toys: Before feeding, give your baby something cold and safe to chew on, like a teething toy. This can ease their urge to bite while nursing.
• Say “Ouch” Gently: If biting happens, calmly say, “Ouch, no biting,” and take a short break from nursing. Babies learn quickly that if they want to breastfeed they shouldn’t bite.

Tips for Teething and Breastfeeding^3,4,5,6

• Massage the Gums: Use a clean finger to massage your baby’s gums prior to feeding to help them feel more comfortable. This can help soothe their gums and may reduce the urge to bite during a feeding.
• Try Cool Relief: A chilled (not frozen) teething ring or cool, damp washcloth can soothe sore gums before a breastfeeding session.
• Experiment with Positions: Your baby might find certain breastfeeding positions more comfortable while teething. Try a few to see what works best.
• Be Patient: Teething can make babies fussier than usual, but it’s a phase that will pass with time. Offer extra cuddles and comfort whenever they need it!

Teething is Temporary^3,4,5,6

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:

• Babycare for the Breastfed Baby
• Lactation Q&A
• Moms Circle

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References