Teething is a common developmental stage for infants, typically beginning around 6 months of age, though it can vary widely among babies. This period often brings a range of symptoms, such as irritability and changes in sleep patterns, as a baby’s first teeth begin to emerge through the gums. Parents frequently observe various physical and behavioral shifts, sometimes including unexpected reactions like vomiting, leading to questions about whether such symptoms are typical.
Teething and Vomiting: The Connection
Vomiting is generally not considered a direct or typical symptom of teething itself. While infants may experience discomfort as teeth break through the gums, vomiting is usually attributed to other causes. However, there are indirect ways vomiting might coincide with the teething process. For instance, increased drooling, a common teething symptom, can lead to a baby swallowing large amounts of saliva, which may irritate a sensitive stomach and potentially cause gagging or vomiting.
Another factor is that the period of teething often coincides with a decrease in a baby’s passive immunity acquired from the mother. Infants also begin to explore their environment by putting objects into their mouths more frequently. This combination can make them more susceptible to various infections, such as common stomach bugs, which are a direct cause of vomiting, rather than teething itself.
Common and expected teething symptoms include:
Swollen, tender gums
Increased drooling
A desire to chew on objects
Fussiness
Changes in appetite
A slight increase in temperature, usually below 100.4°F (38°C)
Distinguishing Concerning Vomiting
It is important for parents to differentiate between minor discomfort that might indirectly occur during teething and vomiting that signals a more serious underlying illness. Persistent or forceful vomiting, particularly if it lasts more than 12 to 24 hours, warrants medical attention. Vomit that appears green, contains blood, or resembles coffee grounds also requires immediate evaluation. Such indicators suggest the vomiting is likely due to an infection, such as gastroenteritis, or another condition unrelated to teething, necessitating prompt medical consultation.
Parents should also watch for signs of dehydration, which can develop quickly in infants who are vomiting. These signs include:
Decreased urination (fewer than six wet diapers in 24 hours for infants)
A dry mouth and lips
Lack of tears when crying
Sunken eyes
A sunken soft spot (fontanelle) on the head
Other concerning symptoms include:
A high fever (above 100.4°F or 38°C)
Accompanying diarrhea
Severe abdominal pain
If the baby appears unusually lethargic, drowsy, or unresponsive
Comforting Your Teething Baby
Providing comfort to a teething baby can help manage their discomfort. Offering chilled, but not frozen, teething rings or chew toys can provide soothing pressure on the gums. Freezing these items can make them too hard and potentially damage a baby’s delicate gums.
Gently massaging the baby’s gums with a clean finger can also offer relief. A clean pacifier or a chilled, wet washcloth can also be effective in soothing sore gums.
Ensuring proper hydration is important, especially if a baby is drooling excessively or has reduced feeding due to discomfort; if the baby is over 6-9 months old, cool water can be offered in small amounts. Consult a pediatrician before using any over-the-counter teething gels or pain relievers, as many teething gels are not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of proven efficacy. If pain relief is necessary, infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be considered for babies aged 3 months or older, following dosage instructions carefully.