How to Tell if Your Baby is Teething or Sick

When your baby is fussy, it’s hard. Even harder is trying to figure out why. Is it teething? Or could they be coming down with something? Figuring out this common parenting puzzle can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help.

What is Teething?

Teething happens when a baby’s teeth begin to emerge through the gums. These milestones can start as early as 4 to 6 months, though every baby is unique. Here’s a general breakdown of when you might notice various teeth erupting, based on guidelines from oral health professionals like the American Dental Association (ADA):

• 6-10 months—Bottom front teeth (central incisors)
• 8-12 months—Top front teeth (central incisors)
• 9-16 months—Lateral incisors (top and bottom, next to the front teeth)
• 13-19 months—First molars (top and bottom, back teeth)
• 16-22 months—Canines (those pointy teeth, top and bottom)
• 23-33 months—Second molars (final set of back teeth)

Teething is a process that can come and go over many months. This means your baby can experience teething symptoms multiple times during their first few years as each new tooth emerges.

Teething vs. Illness

Teething symptoms vary from one baby to another, and they can frequently be confused with symptoms of the cold, flu, and other illnesses. Here are some common symptoms you might notice in your baby and how to tell if he or she is sick or just teething.

Rash

A rash can be a common sign of illness in young children, yet many also associate rash with teething. Teething stimulates extra saliva production. Some babies drool quite a bit. If drool isn’t wiped away frequently, your baby may also develop a rash around their chin or neck due to moisture irritation. When you baby has a stuffy nose, something similar can happen and cause a rash under the nose.

Pay close attention to the location of the rash and its direct cause. A rash accompanied by a runny nose may indicate illness, as may a rash on other parts of the body. If, however, your baby’s rash seems tied to a little more drool, teething might be the culprit.

Fever

A slight increase in body temperature may accompany teething. However, teething should not result in a true fever of 100°F or higher. If your baby has a high fever, it’s best to consult with a pediatrician to rule out an infection or other illness.

Diarrhea

It is a common misconception that teething babies drool more, and swallowing excess saliva may lead to looser stools. However, diarrhea is not a normal symptom of teething and could point to an underlying illness, such as a stomach bug or food intolerance.

Stuffy Nose and Coughing

Congestion and coughing are sometimes linked to a teething baby swallowing more saliva, but excessive symptoms like a runny nose, wheezing, or deep chest coughs suggest an illness such as a cold or flu. If your baby displays any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek advice from your pediatrician.

Pulling at Ears

While this behavior might occasionally indicate teething, it is rare. It is more likely that pulling at the ears is an indication of an ear infection. Even if you suspect teething, you should always have your baby evaluated by a pediatrician if they continue to pull at their ears, as untreated ear infections can cause hearing loss.

Gum Rubbing and Chewing

If your baby is gnawing on anything they can grab—think toys, fingers, or even the edge of their crib—teething could be the culprit. This behavior helps relieve pressure from under the gums. These symptoms are not usually associated with illness, so when your baby munches on their hands or other objects, suspect they are getting a new tooth soon.

Changes in Sleep or Eating

If your baby is waking up more frequently at night or struggling to nap during the day, teething discomfort might be waking them. Similarly, sore gums can make feeding uncomfortable. Teething babies might refuse to nurse, drink from a bottle, or eat solid foods. Of course, illness can have similar effects.

Whenever your baby’s eating habits change, keep an eye on their hydration and check with a pediatrician if they seem to be eating far less than usual.

Fussiness and Irritability

Crying and general fussiness can mean a lot of different things for your baby. Teething babies are often more fussy or clingy than usual. The pressure of an emerging tooth can lead to discomfort, which may make your little one more irritable throughout the day. The same can be true when your baby is under the weather. Pay attention to different queues (like whether fussiness and chewing are happening together) to decipher the cause.

More Questions About Teething?

Regular dental check-ups are the perfect opportunity to ask all of your teething questions, and they should start early. Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by the time their first tooth appears—or no later than their first birthday.

If you have questions about teething or are ready to schedule that first appointment, reach out to us today!