Why Parents Worry About Teething
Teething is a major milestone, but it can also be a confusing time. Many symptoms get blamed on teething — from fevers to rashes to diarrhea — when they're actually caused by something else. Understanding what teething really looks like can save you unnecessary worry.
Real Teething Symptoms
These are the symptoms that are actually associated with teething:
- Increased drooling — Often starts weeks before a tooth appears
- Chewing on everything — Counter-pressure feels good on sore gums
- Fussiness and irritability — Especially around feeding and bedtime
- Swollen, tender gums — You may see or feel a hard bump
- Slight temperature rise — But not a true fever
- Changes in eating patterns — May refuse the breast or bottle temporarily
- Disrupted sleep — Waking more frequently at night
What Teething Does NOT Cause
- High fever (over 100.4°F)
- Diarrhea
- Severe rashes (beyond a mild chin rash from drool)
- Vomiting
- Congestion or cough
If your baby has these symptoms, they're likely sick and teething at the same time — which happens often because the teething age overlaps with when babies start losing the protection from maternal antibodies.
Safe Teething Remedies
- Chilled teething rings or washcloths — Cold provides soothing counter-pressure. Chill in the fridge, not freezer.
- Gum massage — Gently rub your baby's gums with a clean finger.
- Teething crackers or cold foods — For babies already eating solids, chilled fruit in a mesh feeder works well.
- Infant acetaminophen (Tylenol) — For persistent discomfort, dosed by weight.
- Infant ibuprofen (Motrin) — For babies 6 months and older.
What to Avoid
- Benzocaine gels (Orajel) — FDA warning for children under 2
- Homeopathic teething tablets — Some have been found to contain unsafe levels of belladonna
- Amber teething necklaces — Choking and strangulation risk with no proven benefit
- Frozen teething toys — Too hard and can hurt sore gums
When to Call the Pediatrician
- Your baby has a true fever (100.4°F or higher)
- Symptoms last longer than a week for a single tooth
- Your baby refuses to eat or drink for more than a day
- You see pus or bleeding from the gums
- No teeth have appeared by 18 months
Key Takeaways
- Teething causes discomfort but not serious illness
- True fevers, diarrhea, and rashes are likely from illness, not teething
- Chilled teething rings and gum massage are the safest remedies
- Avoid teething gels, homeopathic tablets, and amber necklaces
- When in doubt, call your pediatrician
