Teething and Breastfeeding - Can They Mix?

I was playing with my 8 month old niece on Shabbat. Two cute bottom teeth have popped out. She grabbed my fingers and put them in her months to soothe her new burgeoning teeth. And then she chomped down with her sharp new teeth.

It was painful and reminded me of a question I have been asked:

"Can I nurse once he has teeth?"

Yes! You can nurse even with a mouthful of teeth. It is actually impossible to bite while nursing. When a child nurses, their tongue covers the bottom teeth and is active in suckling milk. Therefore, a child who bites - is not feeding!

Many times, teething babies will nurse more often than usual. It is calming and soothing for them.

Note if your child is latching on well, and ensure they are opening wide. Nursing mothers can compress their breast to fit better.

Other babies will not want to breastfeed when the teeth are coming out (particularly the painful molars). Make sure they are receiving enough fluids. You can offer nighttime feedings when they are in light sleep. Breastmilk can be frozen as a popsicle and given to soothe their teeth, as well as give nutrition and liquids.

More questions regarding teething and breastfeeding? Contact me.