Fever During Teething: Myth or Fact?

Fever during teething is a common concern among parents, especially when babies are between 6 and 24 months old. Many believe that any rise in body temperature during this period is automatically caused by erupting teeth. However, is it true that teething causes fever? Or is this simply a widespread myth? This article discusses the issue from a medical perspective.

What Is Teething?

Teething is the process in which a baby’s primary (baby) teeth begin to emerge through the gums. The first tooth typically appears around 6 months of age, although variation in timing is considered normal. The process continues gradually until all 20 primary teeth have erupted, usually by the age of 2.5 to 3 years. As a tooth pushes through the gum tissue, mild local inflammation may occur. This inflammation is responsible for many of the symptoms commonly associated with teething.

Common Symptoms of Teething

Typical signs of teething include:

• Swollen or reddened gums
• Increased fussiness or irritability
• Excessive drooling
• A tendency to bite or chew on objects
• Slight decrease in appetite

Some parents also report an increase in body temperature. It is important, however, to distinguish between a mild rise in temperature and a true fever.

Does Teething Cause Fever?

From a medical standpoint, teething may cause a slight increase in body temperature, but it does not cause high fever. Research indicates that the mild inflammation occurring in the gums can lead to a small elevation in temperature, typically not exceeding 37.5–38°C (99.5–100.4°F). This is often referred to as a low-grade fever. However, if a child’s temperature reaches 38°C (100.4°F) or higher, particularly when accompanied by symptoms such as cough, diarrhea, vomiting, or lethargy, the cause is unlikely to be teething alone.

Therefore, the belief that teething causes high fever is largely a myth. High fever in infants is more commonly the result of viral or bacterial infections, which frequently occur during the same developmental period.

Why Does Fever Often Occur at the Same Time as Teething?

The overlap in timing plays a significant role. Teething commonly occurs at an age when a baby’s immune system is still developing. Around 6 months of age, maternal antibodies passed on at birth begin to decline, making infants more susceptible to infections.

Additionally, babies who are teething tend to put various objects into their mouths to relieve gum discomfort. This behavior increases exposure to germs and raises the risk of infection, which can lead to fever. Because both teething and infections often occur during the same stage of development, fever is frequently attributed to teething when the actual cause may be unrelated.

When Should Parents Be Concerned?

Parents should seek medical attention if the child experiences:

• A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher
• Fever lasting more than 24-48 hours
• Marked lethargy or difficulty waking
• Persistent vomiting or severe diarrhea
• Signs of dehydration, such as reduced urination or refusal to drink

These symptoms suggest that the fever may be caused by an infection or another medical condition rather than teething.

Managing Teething Discomfort

To help relieve discomfort during teething, parents may:

1. Offer a clean, chilled (not frozen) teething ring.
2. Gently massage the baby’s gums with a clean finger or soft cloth.
3. Ensure adequate fluid intake to maintain hydration.
4. Use age-appropriate fever-reducing medication if recommended by a healthcare professional.

Topical medications for gum pain should only be used under medical guidance.

Conclusion

Fever during teething is largely a myth if referring to high fever. While teething can cause a mild increase in body temperature due to gum inflammation, it does not typically cause significant or prolonged fever. If a child develops a high fever or concerning symptoms, parents should not automatically attribute it to teething. Proper medical evaluation is essential to determine the underlying cause and ensure the child’s safety and well-being.

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