Parents often wonder about the connection between teething and fever, a common concern that frequently leads to questions about a baby’s health. Many believe that the emergence of new teeth directly causes high body temperatures. This perception can lead to confusion about when a fever is a normal part of teething discomfort or a sign of an underlying illness. This article clarifies common misconceptions and provides guidance on managing infant temperatures during this developmental stage.
Is Fever a Teething Symptom?
Scientific research indicates that while teething can cause a slight elevation in a baby’s body temperature, it typically does not cause a true fever. Temperature increases associated with teething are usually low-grade, often remaining below 100.4°F (38°C) when measured rectally. If a baby’s temperature rises above this, it is generally not attributed solely to teething.
A low-grade temperature increase can be a mild inflammatory response as teeth emerge. However, a fever occurring during teething is more likely a symptom of an underlying infection. This is because teething often coincides with an age when babies are more exposed to new pathogens and have decreased maternal antibodies, making them more susceptible to infections.
Understanding Teething Fever Thresholds
A rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is formally defined as a fever. For infants under three months, any fever requires immediate medical attention. This is an emergency because their immune systems are still developing, and a fever could indicate a serious infection. Do not give fever medication to babies under three months before they are seen by a healthcare provider.
For babies three months and older, while fevers are often due to common viral infections, medical consultation is recommended for temperatures consistently above 102.2°F (39°C). A fever that persists for more than 24 hours in babies under two years, or more than 72 hours in children over two years, also warrants a doctor’s visit. A fever that does not decrease after appropriate over-the-counter medication might also signal a more serious issue.
Comforting Your Teething Baby
While high fevers are not a direct result of teething, managing the discomfort associated with erupting teeth is a common parental concern. Several safe methods can help soothe a teething baby and alleviate gum soreness.
Offering a firm rubber teething ring, or a chilled (not frozen) washcloth or spoon, can provide pressure and a cooling sensation to the gums. Freezing these items can make them too hard and potentially damage delicate gums. Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can also provide relief. For babies who have started solids, chilled fruits in a mesh feeder can be soothing.
If non-medicinal approaches do not provide sufficient relief, over-the-counter pain relievers like infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be considered, following age and dosage guidelines. Ibuprofen is suitable for babies over six months, while acetaminophen can be used for younger infants. Always follow medicine instructions and consult a pediatrician regarding dosage or concerns.
When Fever is More Than Just Teething
Recognizing when a fever signals an illness beyond typical teething discomfort is important. Parents should seek medical attention if a fever is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
- Unusual lethargy, significant changes in behavior, or extreme irritability that is difficult to console.
- A rash, particularly small, purple-red spots that do not fade when pressed, or large purple blotches.
- Difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Reduced urine output, crying without tears, or a dry mouth, suggesting dehydration.
- A stiff neck, severe headache, or sensitivity to light.
- Fever lasting longer than the recommended duration for their age, or if they appear very sick despite the temperature.
Contacting a healthcare provider is essential in these cases. Trusting parental intuition about a baby’s overall appearance and behavior is also important when deciding to seek professional medical advice.