Teething is a common developmental milestone for infants, typically beginning around six months of age, though the timing can vary widely. The process of a tooth breaking through the gum line often causes discomfort, leading parents to observe and investigate various physical changes in their baby. Among the frequently reported signs, the appearance of red or flushed cheeks is a common observation that prompts parents to seek confirmation about its connection to the erupting teeth. Understanding the nature of this symptom is important for providing appropriate comfort.
The Direct Answer: Is Cheek Redness Linked to Teething?
Red or flushed cheeks are commonly associated with the teething period, though they are generally considered an indirect symptom rather than a direct result of the tooth breaking through the gum tissue. This observation is frequent enough that “flushed cheeks” or “cherry cheeks” are often listed among the typical signs of teething. The redness often appears on the side of the face where a tooth is actively erupting, which can help link the symptom to the specific oral discomfort.
The redness itself is not a universal symptom, but a significant number of babies will exhibit this change. The flushing is often temporary and can be accompanied by a feeling of warmth in the affected cheek area.
Understanding the Physiological Mechanism
The physiological reasons behind the cheek redness during teething involve two main mechanisms: localized inflammation and external skin irritation. When a tooth pushes through the gum line, it creates inflammation and increased blood flow to the surrounding oral tissues. This localized inflammation in the mouth may cause a warming or flushing effect in the corresponding area of the face.
Localized Inflammation
Another explanation involves the shared nervous system pathways in the head. The trigeminal nerve is responsible for sensation in the face and the teeth. Irritation in the gum area can sometimes result in referred discomfort or increased vascular activity in the nearby facial skin. This nerve connection can cause the cheek on the same side as the erupting tooth to appear warmer and redder.
External Irritation (Drool Rash)
A more frequent and often noticeable cause is the external irritation from excessive drooling, or sialorrhea, which is a hallmark of teething. The constant flow of saliva on the chin, mouth, and cheeks can break down the skin’s natural barrier. This moisture exposure leads to a condition known as drool rash or irritant dermatitis, which is characterized by chapping, dryness, and subsequent redness on the skin. Babies often rub their face or cheeks to relieve gum discomfort, and this friction against the irritated, saliva-moistened skin can exacerbate the existing redness. Keeping the skin clean and dry is often the most effective method for managing this type of redness.
When Red Cheeks Signal Something Else
It is important to differentiate the low-grade, localized redness of teething from symptoms that indicate a more serious illness requiring medical attention. Teething discomfort is typically localized to the mouth and is not known to cause symptoms outside of this area, except for minor secondary effects like the drool rash. A true fever, defined as a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, is not caused by the process of teething itself.
If red cheeks are accompanied by a fever, severe diarrhea, vomiting, or a widespread rash, parents should consult a pediatrician. These symptoms suggest an underlying infection or illness, which may be coinciding with the teething process. The increased hand-to-mouth activity during teething may inadvertently introduce germs, leading to a concurrent illness.
A bright red cheek rash, sometimes described as looking like a “slapped cheek,” can be the signature sign of Fifth Disease, a common viral infection. Other conditions like eczema, food allergies, or a bacterial skin infection such as cellulitis can also cause significant facial redness. If the redness is spreading, appears blistered or scaly, or is accompanied by unusual fussiness or lethargy, it is a signal that the cause is likely something other than a tooth breaking through the gum.