Teething is a natural milestone in your child’s growth, but it often raises questions, fears, and misunderstandings among parents. Many caregivers believe that teething causes fevers, illness, and severe discomfort but what does science say? As dentistry experts, we know that separating myths from facts helps parents make safer, more confident choices when caring for their little ones.
This guide breaks down what teething really does to your child’s body, whether it can cause a fever, how to treat symptoms safely, and when to seek help. Understanding the difference between normal teething behavior and signs of true illness can prevent unnecessary worry and keep your child healthy.
Table of Contents
Does Teething Cause Fever
One of the most common questions parents ask is whether teething causes fever. The short answer: Teething does not cause a true medical fever.
Understanding the Myth
For generations, families believed that the eruption of baby teeth triggered illness, fever, and even serious infections. This belief was so strong that medical records from centuries ago described teething as a “dangerous” condition.
Modern pediatric dentistry tells a different story: teething may cause a slight rise in body temperature, but it does not cause a true fever above 100.4°F (38°C).
Normal Teething Temperature Rise
A mild temperature increase caused by gum inflammation is normal. Parents may notice:
- Slight warmth
- Mild fussiness
- Red cheeks
These symptoms are due to gum irritation not infection.
Teething Fever: What Causes It
If teething doesn’t cause fevers, why do some children seem warm or uncomfortable?
Gum Inflammation and Temperature Changes
As teeth push through the gums, mild inflammation occurs. This can slightly raise the body’s temperature but rarely enough to qualify as a fever.
Increased Saliva Production
Drooling increases during teething. Excess saliva can irritate the skin, making the cheeks appear flushed or warm often mistaken for fever.
Immune System Awareness
Babies put objects into their mouths to soothe their gums. This increases exposure to germs, making cold-like symptoms more likely.
The illness not the tooth is what causes the fever.
Timing Overlap with Common Childhood Illnesses
Teething often occurs between 6–24 months, a period when children naturally catch more viral infections. These illnesses not teething cause fever, diarrhea, cough, or runny noses.
Other Symptoms of Teething
While teething does not cause fever, it can lead to several noticeable symptoms.
Common Teething Symptoms
- Swollen or tender gums
- Increased chewing or biting
- Excessive drooling
- Irritability
- Slight sleep disturbances
- Pulling or rubbing ears
- Mild decrease in appetite
Symptoms That Are NOT From Teething
These require medical evaluation:
- High fever
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Persistent cough
- Congestion lasting over a week
- Rash on the body
- Lethargy
These symptoms suggest infection not teething.
Treating Teething Fever
Even though teething itself doesn’t cause fever, a baby who seems warm or irritable may still need comfort. Here are safe ways to manage both teething discomfort and mild temperature elevation.
Gum Massage
Using clean fingers, gently massage your child’s gums to relieve pressure.
Chilled (Not Frozen) Teething Toys
Cold reduces inflammation and numbs the gums. Avoid freezing toys, as they can damage delicate gum tissue.
Cold Washcloth
Soak a clean cloth in water, chill it, and let your baby chew on it.
Teething Rings
Choose BPA-free, silicone teething rings. Avoid teething necklaces, as they pose choking and strangulation risks.
Safe Pain Relief Options
Always consult a pediatrician before giving medication.
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be recommended for discomfort—not for teething alone.
Hydration & Comfort
If your child is fussy, ensure they drink plenty of fluids. Comforting, rocking, and soothing can help.
What NOT to Use
- Benzocaine or lidocaine gels (unsafe for infants)
- Teething tablets with belladonna
- Amber teething necklaces
- Frozen objects
These products may pose health risks.
When to See a Doctor
Parents should always monitor symptoms carefully. If the signs go beyond mild teething discomfort, a doctor’s visit is necessary.
Seek Medical Care If Your Child Has:
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Rash extending beyond the mouth
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent crying or irritability
- No wet diapers for 8+ hours (dehydration)
- Symptoms lasting longer than 3 days
Deadly Myth to Avoid
Never assume that a fever is caused by teething. Misattributing a fever to teething delays real medical care and may worsen an underlying illness.
How to Tell the Difference Between Teething and Illness
Parents often struggle to determine the true cause of their child’s symptoms. Here’s how to distinguish them.
Temperature Difference
- Teething: Slight increase, not higher than 100.4°F
- Illness: Fever above 100.4°F, often accompanied by other symptoms
Behavior Clues
- Teething: Child may be fussy but generally responsive
- Illness: Unusual lethargy, irritability, or refusal to eat
Symptom Duration
- Teething: Symptoms appear for a few days per tooth
- Illness: May last longer or worsen over time
Is Teething Painful? What Parents Should Know
Teething pain varies for every child. Some barely notice it, while others experience discomfort.
Why Teething Can Hurt
The tooth must push through the gum surface, creating pressure and inflammation. This is temporary and improves once the tooth breaks through.
Safe Teething Remedies Backed by Dentistry
Here are professional recommendations for soothing pain safely.
Silicone Teething Toys
Gentle pressure on gums reduces irritation.
Chilled Spoons
The chill numbs the gum surface temporarily.
Wet Gauze Pads
A clean gauze pad provides relief when gently rubbed on gums.
Distraction Techniques
Playtime, singing, and cuddling help ease discomfort.
Good Oral Hygiene From Day One
Wipe baby gums daily with a soft cloth to reduce bacteria and irritation.
Separating Fact from Fiction: Common Teething Myths
Teething is surrounded by misinformation. Here’s what’s true—and what isn’t.
MYTH: Teething Causes High Fever
Fact: Only mild temperature increases occur.
MYTH: Teething Causes Diarrhea
Fact: Viral infections—not teething—cause diarrhea.
MYTH: Babies Don’t Need Dental Care Until Age One or Later
Fact: Dental visits should begin once the first tooth erupts or by age one.
MYTH: You Should Give Teething Pills or Gels
Fact: Many over-the-counter products are unsafe.
Could Your Baby’s Symptoms Be Something Else?
Several conditions mimic teething symptoms:
Ear Infections
Ear tugging, fussiness, and sleep changes can resemble teething.
Viral Illnesses
Colds and flu cause fever, congestion, and irritability—not linked to teething.
Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease
Causes mouth sores, fever, and rash.
When in doubt, always consult a pediatrician or dentist.
Is Your Child Teething? Visit Magnolia Dentistry
Teething is normal, but your child’s oral health needs expert attention from the start. At Magnolia Dentistry, we help parents understand what’s normal, what needs attention, and how to protect your child’s smile during every stage of development.
Our gentle approach ensures your child receives safe, comfortable, and compassionate care from teething through childhood and beyond.
FAQs
How to differentiate teething fever?
A true fever (above 100.4°F) is not caused by teething. Mild temperature increases can occur, but high fevers always require medical evaluation.
Does teething cause fever raising children?
No. Teething may cause gum irritation or slight warmth but does not cause actual fever. If your child has a fever, it is likely due to illness.
Are there any cultural beliefs about baby teeth?
Yes. Many cultures historically believed teething caused severe illness or even death, but modern science proves teething itself is not dangerous.
What age does teething usually begin?
Most babies start teething around 6 months, but it can begin as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months.
How long does teething pain last?
Usually 2–3 days per tooth, with relief once the tooth emerges.
Can teething cause sleep problems?
Yes. Mild sleep disturbances are common due to gum discomfort.
Is drooling always from teething?
Not always. Increased saliva production can also occur during growth spurts or exposure to new foods.
What helps teething babies sleep better?
A consistent bedtime routine, gentle gum massage, and chilled teething toys can help soothe discomfort at night.
