How to Tell If Your Baby Is Teething or Sick
Watching a baby begin to teethe is a milestone many parents both look forward to and worry about. As primary teeth start pushing through the gums, it’s common to notice signs like drooling, gum irritation, and even swollen gum areas. Parents may offer a teething ring for relief, trying to help their child through this sometimes uncomfortable stage.
The first baby teeth often arrive around six to eight months old, starting with the bottom front teeth and soon followed by the top. As time goes on, more teeth—including the first molar—begin to appear, bringing months of new discoveries and a few unexpected challenges. Understanding what to look for, from sore gums to extra chewing, can help parents feel more confident when their child shows the signs of teething.
Not Every Symptom Means Teething
Many parents worry when their baby is uncomfortable, but not every problem is caused by teething. While tooth eruption can lead to symptoms like drooling, mild rash, a slight rise in temperature, short periods of diarrhea, and irritability, these signs are usually brief and not severe.
Persistent symptoms such as a high fever (over 100.4°F), ongoing diarrhea, or loss of appetite should not be blamed on teething alone. If these issues last more than a few days, it’s a good idea to contact a pediatrician or dentist. Being careful helps prevent missing other illnesses or ignoring early signs of problems like tooth decay or plaque.
Knowing the Signs of Teething in Infants
Common Symptoms Seen During Teething
Many babies show clear physical signs when they begin to get new teeth. Parents may notice:
- Red or swollen gums
- Excessive drooling
- A need to chew on hands or toys
- A mild increase in body temperature (but not a high fever)
These symptoms are usually short-lived and tend to come and go as each tooth breaks through.
Shifts in Mood and Comfort
Teething babies often act more fussy or cranky than usual. They may cry more, have trouble sleeping, or seem hard to comfort. Some babies also lose interest in eating because their gums hurt. Caregivers often see babies put things in their mouths to get some relief from the soreness.
When Does the Teething Process Start?
Most infants begin teething between four and seven months old, but the timing can vary for each child. Some babies get their first tooth a little earlier or later. By age three, most children have a full set of baby teeth. Each child is different, so the exact teething timeline is not always the same.
How Teething and Colds Share Similar Signs
Shared Signs Found in Both Teething and Colds
Many symptoms overlap between teething and having a cold, making it hard to know the real cause. Babies can experience increased drooling, fussiness, a mild rise in temperature, and irritated gums with both issues. Additional signs like a runny nose and loss of appetite are also common to both teething and mild colds.
Reasons for Mixing Up Teething With a Cold
Caregivers often find it challenging to tell the difference between teething and a cold, mainly because the symptoms appear at the same time in infants. Since both may result in a runny nose, crankiness, and minor changes in appetite, it’s quite easy to link these signs to either problem.
Young children also tend to put lots of things in their mouths while teething, which can easily spread germs and lead to actual illnesses, further confusing the picture. Parents might notice their child feeling unwell and assume it is only teething, when in some cases, it could be the start of a mild cold.
Ways to Soothe a Teething Baby
Caring for a teething baby can feel challenging, but there are several methods parents and caregivers can use to help ease discomfort. Using a clean finger or a damp piece of gauze to gently rub the gums offers relief by adding gentle pressure. Many babies also feel better when they chew on a cool teething ring or a soft, wet cloth placed in the refrigerator for a short time.
Offering a cold washcloth or a specially designed teething toy can help reduce swelling and calm the baby. It is important to make sure any item the baby uses is safe and free of choking hazards. Some parents also find that letting their child suck on a chilled—not frozen—spoon can soothe sore gums.
When comfort measures are not enough, talking with a doctor can help parents find other safe ways to reduce pain. Avoid giving babies products not made for children, as some items may not be safe for teething. Using patience and gentle methods can make this stage easier for both the baby and caregiver.
Ways to Support a Baby with a Cold
When a baby has a cold, it is important to keep them comfortable and help them breathe as easily as possible. Caregivers can use a bulb syringe or a nasal aspirator to gently clear mucus from the baby’s nose, which may help with feeding and sleep. It is also helpful to use a cool-mist humidifier in the baby’s room to add moisture to the air, making breathing easier.
Babies need plenty of fluids, so continue breast or bottle feeding as usual. If the baby has a fever or seems uncomfortable, a doctor may recommend an appropriate dose of infant acetaminophen. Watching for any signs that the baby is struggling to breathe or not eating well is important, since these could be signs to seek medical help. Making sure the baby gets enough rest and lots of cuddles can also help them feel better as they recover.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
Symptoms That May Signal Sickness
It is important to watch for signs that could mean a baby is sick and not just teething. Some examples include a fever higher than 100.4°F (38°C), trouble breathing, a rash, or vomiting. Babies who cry non-stop, refuse to eat or drink, or are hard to wake should also be checked by a doctor. Unusual tiredness, stiff neck, or seizures are also reasons to get medical help right away.
How to Get Ready for the Doctor’s Appointment
Preparing for a visit starts with writing down what symptoms have appeared, when they started, and how they have changed. Make a list of any medications the baby has taken and bring these to the appointment. It is helpful to note changes in eating, sleeping, and diaper habits. Bringing questions to ask the healthcare provider can help parents feel more confident and understand what steps to take next. Having all this information ready may help the doctor find the cause of the child’s discomfort more quickly.
