Toddlers often develop a rash during the teething process. While teething itself does not directly cause a rash, the increased saliva production and subsequent drooling associated with it can lead to skin irritation. This excess moisture on the skin can break down its natural protective barrier, resulting in what is commonly known as a teething rash or drool rash.
Understanding Teething Rash
A teething rash results from prolonged contact between a toddler’s skin and excess saliva. As new teeth emerge, toddlers produce more drool, which can pool around the mouth, chin, and neck. Digestive enzymes in saliva further irritate the skin, causing redness and discomfort.
This rash typically appears as red, slightly raised patches of skin that may feel dry or chapped. Small bumps can also be present. While most commonly found on the chin, cheeks, and neck, the rash can sometimes extend to the chest. On lighter skin, the rash appears red; on darker skin, it might present as brown or gray. This irritation is a form of contact dermatitis, caused by saliva contacting the skin.
Managing and Preventing Teething Rash
Managing a teething rash involves keeping the affected skin dry and clean to prevent further irritation and promote healing. Regularly wipe away excess drool from your toddler’s mouth and surrounding areas using a soft cloth, dabbing rather than rubbing. Changing bibs frequently is also helpful, as absorbent bibs catch saliva and keep moisture away from the skin.
Applying a protective barrier ointment, such as petroleum jelly or lanolin cream, creates a shield between the skin and saliva, allowing it to heal. Use mild, fragrance-free soaps during bathing to prevent additional skin irritation. Limiting pacifier use is also beneficial, as pacifiers can trap drool against the skin, exacerbating the rash.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While teething rashes are generally harmless and often resolve with home care, certain signs indicate that medical attention may be necessary. If the rash spreads beyond the typical drool-affected areas, such as the face, chin, and neck, or if it suddenly worsens, a doctor should be consulted. Signs of infection, including the presence of pus, increased warmth, severe redness, cracking, or bleeding, also warrant a medical evaluation.
A doctor’s visit is also recommended if the rash does not improve after a few days of consistent home care, or if it is accompanied by a fever, especially if the toddler is under six months old or the fever is above 100.4°F (38°C). Rashes that appear as dark purple or red spots, or those that are swollen, wet, crusting, or blistery, require immediate attention. It is important to remember that not all rashes occurring during teething are solely due to drool; other conditions like eczema, yeast infections, or allergic reactions can also present similar symptoms and require different treatments.