Parents frequently wonder if emerging teeth cause a fever. This common question often leads many caregivers to seek clarity on the relationship between teething and temperature.
The Teething-Fever Connection
Teething itself does not directly cause a high fever, defined as 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. While a tooth breaking through the gum may cause a slight temperature elevation, this increase is typically minor and remains below the fever threshold. This mild rise is often attributed to localized gum inflammation as the tooth emerges.
Infants typically begin teething around 6 months, a time when their immune systems are maturing. They are also more frequently exposed to common infections as they explore their environment and put objects in their mouths. Therefore, if a baby experiences a fever while teething, it is more likely due to an unrelated underlying illness.
Typical Teething Signs
Teething manifests through a range of localized symptoms. Increased drooling is common, sometimes causing a mild rash around the mouth, chin, or neck from constant moisture. Babies often display fussiness, irritability, and may chew or gnaw on objects to relieve gum pressure. They might also rub their ears or cheeks, as gum discomfort can radiate to these areas.
Other typical signs include swollen or tender gums. Some infants might experience minor changes in eating habits, such as decreased interest in solid foods, though they generally continue to drink breast milk or formula. Sleep patterns may also be slightly disrupted, leading to increased wakefulness. These symptoms are usually mild and temporary, subsiding as the tooth fully erupts.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Recognizing when to seek medical advice is important, especially when a baby has a fever. For infants under 3 months, any rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher warrants immediate medical attention. For babies 3 to 6 months, 102.2°F (39°C) or higher should prompt a doctor’s call. If a child over 6 months develops a fever of 104°F (40°C) or higher, or if it persists for more than three days, medical consultation is advisable.
Beyond specific temperature readings, certain accompanying symptoms signal a need for prompt medical evaluation. These include unusual lethargy or drowsiness, significant fussiness that cannot be comforted, or a refusal to drink fluids, which can lead to dehydration. Other concerning signs are difficulty breathing, a stiff neck, a spreading rash, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, or any signs of dehydration like decreased urination or a sunken soft spot. A fever indicates an underlying issue requiring assessment.