24
Feb
Can Teething Cause Fever? Separating Myths from Facts
Teething is an exciting milestone in your baby’s early development, but it can also bring a few sleepless nights and lots of questions. When your little one seems extra fussy or warm to the touch, it’s only natural to wonder: Can teething cause a fever?
It’s one of the most common concerns parents ask us about.
At Amp Orthodontics & Kids Dental in Clemmons, Dr. Adam Hoina and our team love helping families better understand what’s normal during teething vs. when something else might be going on.
What happens during teething?
Babies are actually born with a full set of teeth hiding beneath the gums. Between about four and seven months of age, those teeth begin to erupt through the surface.
As baby teeth come in, it’s common to notice:
- Sore or swollen gums.
- Drooling.
- Chewing or biting on objects.
- Irritability or restlessness.
- Trouble sleeping.
- A slight rise in body temperature
While it can be tough seeing your baby uncomfortable, teething is a completely normal (and temporary!) part of growing up.
Can teething cause fever?
Short answer: Not a true fever.
Although teething may cause a small increase in body temperature, pediatric experts agree it shouldn’t cause a fever above 100.4°F.
If your baby develops a higher fever, diarrhea, a rash, or seems unusually lethargic, it’s more likely due to a separate illness that happens to coincide with teething.
In other words, the timing overlaps, but teething usually isn’t the cause.
Why the confusion?
The mix-up makes sense.
Teething often starts around the same time babies begin losing some of the natural immune protection they received from their mother at birth. As their immune system matures, they’re more likely to catch everyday viruses.
So when a cold or infection shows up during teething, it’s easy to connect the two, even though they’re unrelated.
How can I relieve teething symptoms?
If your baby is showing signs of teething without a true fever, you can try the following home remedies to improve your baby’s comfort:
- Chilled teething rings can soothe aching gums.
- Cold (not frozen) foods like yogurt can numb sore gums.
- A gentle gum massage with a clean finger can provide quick relief.
- Age-appropriate, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for babies six months and older) may be used if their pediatrician recommends them.
Avoid aspirin or topical numbing gels unless specifically advised by your doctor.
Most teething discomfort improves with these simple steps. However, consider calling your pediatrician if your child develops a fever above 100.4°F, persistent diarrhea, unusual sleepiness, or seems inconsolable. These symptoms are usually related to illness rather than teething.
Ready to schedule a pediatric dental consultation?
Teething can be uncomfortable for little ones and stressful for parents, but it’s a completely normal part of growing up. If you ever have questions or simply want peace of mind about your child’s smile and development, our team is here to help. Families in Clemmons and surrounding communities trust Amp Orthodontics & Kids Dental for gentle, supportive care. Call 336-999-0123 to schedule a visit anytime.
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Dr. Adam Hoina, founder of Amp Orthodontics & Kids Dental, is a ABO-Board orthodontist and family dentist dedicated to delivering honest, research driven care with a focus on personalized and minimally-invasive approaches. As an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Dr. Hoina stays at the forefront of advancements in orthodontic care, engaging in ongoing education to uphold the highest standards of treatment for patients of all ages. His passion for building confidence and improving quality of life through beautiful, healthy smiles shines through in his compassionate, family-oriented practice.
Dr. Hoina is equally passionate about nurturing dental care for kids, providing holistic, biomimetic, and patient-centered treatments for toddlers, children, and teens to ensure optimal health outcomes for every stage of development.
Dr. Hoina holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master of Science in Physiology and Biophysics from SUNY Stony Brook University. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, followed by a General Practice Residency at the Northport Veterans Administration Medical Center and advanced training in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at Tufts University.
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Dr. Hoina was great with my nervous son. He didn’t rush us, took time to explain all the options, and we never felt pushed into anything. Highly recommend!
MELANIE C.
Dr. Hoina treated both of my kids for Invisalign, and I can’t say enough good things about him. He’s professional, friendly, and has a way of making everyone feel at ease. Both of my kids are thrilled with their results- we’re so grateful to Dr. Hoina for everything!
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