Hi B.,
In reading your S.O.S :) Are you saying that he only gets one bottle of formula a day now? If that is what your saying, yes, your Mom is right. He should be having more of that. Since you are on formula, there is another brand that is specifically for the older baby. I think the name is Carnation Good Start, or something like that. Teething is always a trying time as a parent. If you give him a cold wet wash cloth, that will help. They also have a ton of teether toys too. However, I found the wash rag to be more beneficial. It sounds like when he is falling asleep and eating, that he is looking for that comfort. There is no right or wrong way B.. You will find what works best for you and your angel. If you want, you can introduce him to sippy cups. I am not sure he will like it, but, you could always make the introduction. He sounds like a very normal baby. Suckling is a form of comfort. With him not feeling good, I can imagine that is what is making him want that. I would really steer clear of laying him down with a bottle. It is really bad for their developing teeth and their ears. Sometimes the milk or juice will leak down their faces into their ears; causing more of a problem.
I hope that helps.
Take Care,
F.
Olathe, KS