Baby Shaking Head Side to Side On Teething – When to Worry

Baby Shaking Head Side to Side On Teething: Navigating the Teething Phase

As a parent, I know how challenging the teething phase can be. I remember when my first one started teething; I noticed the baby shaking head side to side on teething, and I was initially worried. After some research and consultation with our pediatrician, I learned that this was a common behavior during the teething phase. In this article, I will share my experience and help you better understand and address this behavior in your teething baby.

Normal Head Shaking vs. When Head Shaking is a Concern

The following table highlights the differences between normal head shaking behavior during teething and when head shaking might be a cause for concern:

Normal Head Shaking	When Head Shaking is a Concern
Occurs primarily during the teething phase	Persists even after teething symptoms subside
Provides temporary relief from teething discomfort	Causes noticeable pain or distress
Is accompanied by common teething symptoms	Is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as vomiting or seizures
Does not interfere with your baby’s balance or coordination	Results in balance or coordination issues
Occurs in conjunction with typical developmental milestones	Is accompanied by delays in speech or motor skills
Is not associated with ear pain or infections	Is accompanied by signs of an ear infection, such as fever, irritability, or tugging at the ear
Baby maintains a generally happy demeanor	Baby appears to be consistently upset, lethargic, or in pain

Identifying the Signs of Teething and Head Shaking in Infants

Teething usually starts between 4 to 7 months, but it can begin as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. When a baby starts teething, you may notice the following symptoms:

1. Drooling
2. Swollen or tender gums
3. Chewing on objects
4. Fussiness and irritability
5. Sleep disruption
6. Low-grade fever

As your baby goes through this phase, you might also notice them shaking their head side to side on teething. This behavior can be attributed to the discomfort and itching sensation they experience during the teething process.

How Head Shaking Provides Relief for Teething Babies

Head shaking can be a self-soothing technique for babies experiencing teething discomfort. When you see your baby shaking head side to side on teething, it can help distract them from the pain and create a sense of relief. Additionally, the movement can stimulate their gums, providing temporary relief from the itching and discomfort they feel.

The sensation of head shaking can also act as a counter-stimulus to the pain, reducing the baby’s overall discomfort. This is similar to how rubbing a bumped knee or applying pressure to a sore spot can help alleviate pain. Moreover, head shaking can help your baby learn to self-regulate their emotions and develop their coping mechanisms for dealing with discomfort or pain.

Another reason head shaking might provide relief for teething babies is that it can increase blood circulation in the affected areas. This increased circulation can help promote healing and reduce inflammation, further alleviating the discomfort associated with teething.

Natural Remedies and Techniques to Soothe Teething Pain

To help your baby during the teething phase, try the following natural remedies and techniques:

1. Cold teething toys: Provide your baby with cold teething toys or chilled washcloths to chew on. The cold can help numb their gums and alleviate discomfort. Be sure to monitor your baby while using these toys, as they can pose a choking hazard if broken into smaller pieces.
2. Gum massage: Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger to help relieve pain and discomfort. You can also use a soft, silicone finger brush to provide additional relief and clean the gums at the same time.
3. Soft, cold foods: Offer chilled, soft foods like yogurt or applesauce to help soothe your baby’s gums. You can also try freezing fruit purees in ice cube trays and then letting your baby chew on the frozen fruit cubes.
4. Teething biscuits: Teething biscuits can provide a hard surface for your baby to chew on and help alleviate their pain. Make sure to choose biscuits that are age-appropriate and free of added sugars or artificial ingredients.
5. Amber teething necklaces: Some parents find that amber teething necklaces provide relief for their teething baby, as they are believed to release natural pain-relieving substances when warmed by the baby’s body temperature. However, the FDA warns that these necklaces can pose a choking hazard, so use them with caution and under close supervision.
6. Distraction: Provide your baby with engaging activities and toys to help distract them from the discomfort of teething. Sensory play or musical toys can be particularly effective in capturing your baby’s attention and providing a soothing experience.

Addressing Sleep Disruptions Caused by Teething and Head Shaking

Teething can cause sleep disruptions for both you and your baby. To help minimize these disruptions, consider the following strategies:

1. Establish a consistent bedtime routine: A consistent bedtime routine can help signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep, making it easier for them to fall asleep despite teething discomfort. Incorporate calming activities such as reading, singing lullabies, or giving a warm bath to help your baby relax.
2. Provide comfort items: Offering a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or pacifier can help your baby feel more secure and comfortable during sleep. These items can also provide a soothing and familiar sensory experience for your baby, helping them drift off to sleep more easily.
3. Create a soothing sleep environment: Keep the room dark, cool, and quiet to help your baby fall asleep more easily. Consider using a white noise machine or a fan to drown out any distracting noises and provide a calming background sound.
4. 4. Elevate the head of the crib: Slightly elevating the head of your baby’s crib can help alleviate discomfort caused by teething and make it easier for them to sleep. Use a crib wedge or a rolled-up towel placed under the mattress to achieve the desired elevation.

5. Offer pain relief before bedtime: Consult your pediatrician about using age-appropriate pain relievers, such as infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help your baby sleep more comfortably during the teething phase.
6. Encourage self-soothing techniques: Teach your baby self-soothing techniques, such as sucking on their thumb or a pacifier, to help them fall back asleep if they wake up due to teething discomfort.
7. Be patient and flexible: Understand that sleep disruptions are a normal part of the teething process and that your baby’s sleep patterns will likely return to normal once the teething phase is over. Adjust your own sleep schedule if necessary to ensure you’re getting enough rest.

Recognizing When Head Shaking May Indicate a More Serious Issue

While head shaking is common during teething, it’s essential to monitor the behavior to ensure it doesn’t indicate a more serious issue. Here are some signs that may warrant further investigation:

1. Persistent head shaking: If you continue to see your baby shaking head side to side on teething even after teething symptoms subside, consult your pediatrician. Persistent head shaking may be a sign of a different issue or a habit that needs to be addressed.
2. Ear infections: Head shaking can sometimes be a sign of an ear infection, especially if accompanied by fever, irritability, and tugging at the ear. If you suspect an ear infection, seek medical attention promptly to prevent potential complications.
3. Developmental concerns: If head shaking is accompanied by other developmental concerns such as delays in speech or motor skills, consult your pediatrician. Early intervention can help address any potential issues and ensure your baby’s healthy development.
4. Balance issues: If your baby is struggling with balance or coordination while shaking their head, it may indicate an underlying issue that needs attention. This could be a sign of a neurological or vestibular problem that requires further evaluation.
5. Excessive force: If your baby is shaking their head side to side with excessive force or seems in pain, consult your pediatrician. This could indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed or a coping mechanism that is causing more harm than relief.
6. Other concerning symptoms: If your baby is exhibiting any other concerning symptoms along with head shaking, such as lethargy, vomiting, or seizures, seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms may be signs of a more serious issue that requires prompt evaluation and treatment.

Wrapping it Up

So, what’s behind a baby shaking head side to side on teething? As my baby went through the teething phase and I saw her shaking her head side to side on teething, I learned that it’s essential to educate myself, seek support, and take appropriate steps to manage her discomfort. By using the strategies outlined in this article, you can help your baby navigate the teething process more comfortably and address any concerns that arise.

In the end, remember that the teething phase is temporary, and your baby will eventually outgrow this behavior. Until then, provide your little one with love, patience, and support to help them through this challenging time.

Related FAQs

• What is the typical age range for teething in babies?

Teething usually begins when a baby is between 4 to 7 months old, although it can start as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. The first teeth to emerge are usually the lower central incisors, followed by the upper central incisors.

• How long does the teething phase last?

The teething phase can last for several years, as children typically have all 20 of their primary teeth by the time they are 3 years old. However, the intensity of teething discomfort usually decreases as the child gets older and becomes more accustomed to the sensation.

• Can teething cause fever or diarrhea?

While teething can cause a slight increase in body temperature, it should not cause a high fever. If your baby has a fever above 100.4°F (38°C), consult your pediatrician. Similarly, teething should not cause diarrhea. If your baby is experiencing diarrhea, it may be due to another underlying issue that requires medical attention.

• Is it normal for babies to lose their appetite while teething?

Yes, it is common for babies to lose their appetite while teething due to gum discomfort. Offering soft or cold foods can help alleviate this discomfort and encourage your baby to eat. If your baby’s appetite does not improve, consult your pediatrician for guidance.

• How can I help my baby during the teething phase if they refuse teething toys or cold items?

If your baby refuses teething toys or cold items, try offering a clean, damp washcloth for them to chew on. You can also use gentle gum massages or distraction techniques to help soothe their discomfort. Be patient and explore different soothing methods to find what works best for your baby.

• When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?

You should begin cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth even before their first tooth emerges. Once the first tooth appears, you can start using a soft-bristled infant toothbrush and a small smear of fluoride toothpaste to gently brush their teeth twice a day.

• Do all babies experience discomfort during teething?

No, not all babies experience discomfort during teething. Some babies may have little to no symptoms, while others may experience significant discomfort. It’s essential to monitor your baby’s behavior and provide support as needed during the teething phase.

• Can I use numbing gels or teething tablets for my teething baby?

The FDA strongly advises against using over-the-counter numbing gels or teething tablets, as they may contain harmful ingredients and pose serious risks to your baby’s health. Consult your pediatrician for safe and effective alternatives to help alleviate your baby’s teething discomfort.