Teething, the process of a baby’s teeth emerging through the gums, is a developmental stage often associated with various discomforts. Parents frequently observe changes in their infant’s behavior during this period, leading to questions about the impact on sleep patterns. While conventional wisdom might suggest a disruption of slumber due to pain, the question of whether infants experience increased sleep duration during teething is more complex.
Understanding sleep patterns during infancy is crucial for assessing the influence of developmental milestones. Adequate rest is essential for optimal growth, cognitive development, and overall well-being. Historically, teething has been blamed for a multitude of infant ailments; however, modern research aims to discern correlation from causation. Distinguishing the effects of teething from other factors influencing infant sleep, such as developmental leaps or environmental changes, requires careful consideration.