Teething signs: what is normal and what is not
Short answer
Drooling, chewing, mild fussiness, and slightly red gums are normal. High fever, diarrhea, or a rash are not.
Simple explanation
Teething can be uncomfortable but it does not cause serious illness. A cool teething ring, a clean cold spoon, or gently rubbing the gums with a clean finger can help.
When this usually matters
Helps you avoid over-medicating and know when it is something else.
When to seek dental help
Fever over 38.5°C, diarrhea, or a rash likely means an illness, not teething. See a doctor.
Questions to ask your dentist
- •What can I safely give for teething pain?
- •How can I clean early teeth?
- •When is the first dental visit?
This is simple educational information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a dental examination. Your dentist may recommend something different depending on your mouth, X-rays, pain, infection, gums, bone, medical history, and clinical judgment.