Teething is a natural developmental stage for infants, marked by the emergence of their first teeth through the gums. Many parents wonder if this process causes a fever, a common concern that can lead to confusion about a baby’s health. Differentiating teething signs from illness symptoms is important for appropriate care.
Recognizing Teething Signs
Babies typically begin teething around 6 months of age, though timing varies for each child. The process can cause localized discomfort and changes in behavior. Common indicators include increased drooling, which can lead to a rash around the mouth, chin, or chest due to excess moisture. Babies may also exhibit fussiness or irritability as their gums become sore and tender.
Other signs of teething involve oral behaviors. Babies often chew or gnaw on objects, fingers, or toys to relieve gum pressure. Gums may appear red and swollen where a tooth is about to erupt. Some babies might rub their cheek or pull at their ear, as discomfort can extend to these areas. Changes in eating or sleeping patterns, such as decreased appetite or disturbed sleep, can also occur.
Fevers and Teething: Separating Fact from Fiction
While many parents associate teething with fever, medical consensus indicates teething itself does not cause a high fever. A slight temperature elevation, a low-grade fever, might occur due to localized gum inflammation as a tooth pushes through. This low-grade temperature is below 100.4°F (38°C). A temperature at or above 100.4°F (38°C) is classified as a fever and suggests a cause other than teething.
If a baby develops a significant fever during teething, it is likely due to an underlying illness or infection. Infants are often exposed to viruses and bacteria, especially as they explore their environment by putting objects in their mouths. Common causes of fever in infants include colds, viral infections, ear infections, or other bacterial infections. Attributing a high fever solely to teething can delay diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
When to Consult a Doctor
Parents should seek medical attention if a fever is present. For infants younger than 3 months, any rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher requires an immediate doctor’s visit. For babies between 3 and 6 months old, a fever of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher should prompt a call to the doctor. If a baby is 6 to 24 months old and has a temperature over 102°F (39°C) that lasts longer than one day, consult a doctor.
Beyond specific temperature thresholds, other symptoms alongside a fever warrant medical attention. These include lethargy, poor feeding or refusal to drink, persistent crying that cannot be consoled, or unusual irritability. Other concerning symptoms include difficulty breathing, an unexplained rash, repeated vomiting, or diarrhea, as these are not typical signs of teething and could signal a more serious condition. A doctor should also be consulted if the fever lasts for more than a few days or does not respond to fever-reducing medication.