Teething or Biting While Breastfeeding: How to Help
Teething can be a big milestone for your baby, and sometimes it is challenging for baby and for mother. When new teeth are on the way, babies may drool more, often want to chew on everything, and sometimes change how they breastfeed. This can be a whole new phase of figuring things out.
Most importantly, know, if teething is hard for a mother, it does NOT mean you need to wean. And know too that when feeding, the tongue covers the bottom teeth. This means babies cannot feed and bite at the same time. To help you, read what to expect, as well as tips to make this stage easier for both of you.
What to Expect
Increased fussiness at the breast: Sore gums can make babies feed for shorter times or pull off more often. They can also be fussier in general.
Biting or clamping down: Some babies experiment with their new teeth, especially right before or after a feed.
Comfort feeding: Breastfeeding is still soothing for a teething baby, helping them settle and feel close.
How to Help Your Baby (and Yourself). Pick What Works for You.
Offer teething relief before feeding: A clean, chilled (not frozen) washcloth, or an ice cube in a washcloth, or a teething ring (cold or not), can ease sore gums. This can make breastfeeding more comfortable. If teeth have not ruptured, parents can massage baby’s gums.
Watch for feeding cues: Try to latch baby before they get too fussy, since biting often happens more when baby is distracted or frustrated.
Watch for cues that baby is pausing or feeding is over: Notice if they feed and then bite. If baby pauses, add breast compressions to keep flow going. When feeding is done, try taking baby off, even if it means a little less soothing time. If baby is still hungry, put them back on.
If baby bites: Quickly break the latch with your finger and say in a firm but gentle voice, “No biting.” Babies will learn the difference between breastfeeding and chewing. If you naturally jump and happen to scare baby a bit as a one-off, this may not be your first choice, but it can help.
Try different positions: Some parents find that a new breastfeeding position helps the baby latch better and reduces biting.
Offer extra comfort: More cuddles, rocking, or baby-wearing can meet your baby’s need for closeness during this uncomfortable stage.
Make sure baby is not sick: Baby may be more inclined to bite with a cold or an ear infection.
If your baby also uses a bottle or pacifier: Do not let them chew on these nipples.
When to Seek Help
If biting is frequent, your nipples are sore, or feeding is difficult and you need more help, reach out to us at Lactation Care or another IBCLC We can check your baby’s latch, explore whether teething is the main cause, look for patterns, and suggest strategies to protect your comfort while keeping breastfeeding on track.
Remember: Teething is temporary. With a little patience and some simple strategies, you and your baby can get through this stage while continuing to enjoy breastfeeding.
Celebrate your efforts, trust your body, and cherish this special time with your baby.
You’re doing an amazing job!
Need extra breastfeeding support?
Book an appointment with Lactation Care here or email hello@lactationcare.ca
Resources
Sonya Boersma, BScN, MScN, RN, IBCLC © 2025, Lactation Care
Permission granted to use this in its entirety credited to © Sonya Boersma, Lactation Care. For other use, contact sonya@lactationcare.ca
