Teething is a natural process that often leads to questions about associated physical changes, particularly whether it can cause an elevated body temperature. Many parents wonder if a fever signifies a normal part of teething or something more. This article provides clear, evidence-based information regarding teething and its relationship with body temperature.
Common Teething Signs and Fever
As infants begin teething, usually around six months of age, several signs appear. Parents may observe increased irritability, excessive drooling, and a tendency for the baby to gnaw on objects or rub their gums. Other indicators include swollen or red gums, a flushed cheek, or ear rubbing. Changes in eating patterns, such as decreased interest in solid foods, and disrupted sleep can also occur.
While these symptoms are typical, the medical consensus regarding fever and teething is clear. Teething itself is not considered a direct cause of a true fever, defined as 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. A slight elevation in body temperature, below 100.4°F (38°C), can occur due to mild gum inflammation. However, this minor increase is distinct from a fever, which signals the body’s response to an infection.
High Fevers and Teething
A temperature of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher is not caused by teething alone. Medical professionals agree that if an infant has a high fever, it indicates an underlying illness or infection rather than just teething. Attributing a high fever solely to teething can be a dangerous misconception, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment of a more serious condition.
Numerous common childhood illnesses can cause elevated temperatures. These include viral infections like the common cold, influenza, roseola, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Bacterial infections, such as ear infections, urinary tract infections, or pneumonia, are frequent causes of fever in infants. Fevers can also result from vaccinations, overheating, or dehydration.
When to Consult a Doctor
Consult a healthcare professional for concerns about an infant’s health, especially with a fever. Specific guidelines exist for seeking medical attention based on the child’s age and accompanying symptoms. For infants under three months of age, a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher warrants immediate medical evaluation.
For infants between three and six months old, medical consultation is recommended for temperatures of 102.2°F (39°C) or higher, or if a lower fever is accompanied by signs of illness. In older infants (6 to 24 months), a fever lasting more than one day, or exceeding 102.2°F (39°C), should prompt a doctor’s visit. Regardless of age, seek medical attention if the fever is accompanied by concerning symptoms such as lethargy, extreme fussiness, difficulty breathing, a rash, or signs of dehydration like fewer wet diapers or no tears when crying.