Parents often wonder if a fever is a normal part of teething, leading to confusion and anxiety about a child’s health. Understanding the medical facts regarding fever and teething is important for providing appropriate care. This article clarifies what is medically understood about this common developmental stage and its relationship to body temperature.
Recognizing Teething Signs
Infants typically begin teething around six months, showing several common, mild symptoms. Increased drooling is frequent, often leading to a rash around the mouth, cheeks, and neck.
Babies also desire to chew on objects like toys or hands to relieve gum irritation. Gums may appear swollen or tender where a tooth is emerging.
Common behavioral changes include increased fussiness or irritability, slight sleep disruptions, or reduced interest in solid foods.
The Truth About Fevers During Teething
A slight elevation in body temperature can occur during teething, but it does not cause a true fever. Medical professionals define a fever as 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
Teething may lead to a mild temperature increase, often between 99°F and 100°F (37.2°C and 37.8°C). This slight rise is usually associated with the day a tooth erupts or the day before.
A significant fever, such as one reaching 101°F (38.3°C) or higher, is not attributed to teething alone. If a child develops a higher temperature during the teething period, it likely indicates an underlying illness.
Infants, particularly between 6 and 12 months of age, are more susceptible to common infections like colds or ear infections because their immune protection received from the mother at birth starts to wane. They also tend to put more objects in their mouths, increasing exposure to germs. Attributing a high fever solely to teething can delay the diagnosis and treatment of a potentially more serious condition.
Important Indicators for Medical Attention
Parents should seek medical advice if a fever accompanies teething, particularly if it exceeds specific temperature thresholds or includes other concerning symptoms.
For infants under three months of age, a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher warrants immediate medical attention. For babies older than three months, a fever consistently at or above 102°F (39°C) should prompt a call to a healthcare provider.
Additional symptoms alongside a fever also indicate a need for medical evaluation. These include prolonged fussiness that cannot be soothed, lethargy, difficulty breathing, or a rash that extends beyond the face.
Vomiting, diarrhea, or a refusal to feed fluids are also signs that suggest an illness rather than just teething. If a fever lasts longer than 24 hours, or if parents have any general concerns about their child’s well-being, consulting a doctor is always recommended.