Teething Fever: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and When to Call the Doctor

Can Teething Really Cause a Fever?

Short answer? Yes, but not the kind of fever that sends alarms ringing.

During teething, babies often experience a slight rise in body temperature — what some folks call a “low-grade” teething fever. According to the Mayo Clinic, while mild gum inflammation during teething is common, true high fevers usually point to something else.

If you’re noticing a mild warmth, a little fussiness, and classic teething signs like drooling and chewing, you’re likely just seeing the normal ups and downs of teething fever.

Is a Low-Grade Fever Normal During Teething?

It’s not unusual for teething to cause a low-grade fever — a gentle rise in body temperature that stays under 100.4°F (38°C), according to pediatric experts.

Common teething fever symptoms include flushed cheeks, slight fussiness, extra drooling, and wanting to chew on anything within reach. If your little one is otherwise eating, drinking, and playing normally, a low-grade fever during teething is typically nothing to worry about.

Think of it like a little heat wave passing through the gums — uncomfortable, yes, but not dangerous. Your job is simply to offer comfort and patience while their body does the beautiful work of growing.

What’s Considered “Normal” with Teething Fever

• Temperature stays under 100.4°F (38°C)
• Baby is still alert and responsive (even if cranky)
• Mild fussiness, not full-blown inconsolable crying
• Other teething signs: drooling, swollen gums, gnawing on everything in sight

How High is Too High? When Teething Fever Might Be Something More

While a teething fever can make a baby a little warm, it should never climb too high. If your baby’s temperature reaches over 100.4°F (38°C), it’s likely not just teething causing the spike.

High fevers, persistent irritability, refusal to eat or drink, or signs like a rash or trouble breathing are your baby’s way of saying, “I need a closer look.” As a general rule, a teething fever should always stay low.
If your baby’s temperature climbs higher than expected, it’s time to call your pediatrician for a closer look.

Remember, teething is a natural, sometimes messy part of growing up. But your instincts are natural too. If something feels “off,” it’s always wise to trust that knowing and get the help your little one needs.

When It Might Not Be Just Teething

Now, if the temperature climbs higher or other symptoms pop up, it’s time to pay closer attention. Even if we want to believe it’s “just teething,” sometimes our gut tells us otherwise.

Signs it’s more than teething fever:

• Temperature over 100.4°F (38°C)
• Persistent high fever lasting more than 48 hours
• Rash (other than drool rash)
• Refusing to eat or drink
• Lethargy or extreme irritability
• Trouble breathing or unusual coughing

If you see any of these signs, don’t hesitate to get your little one checked out. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages parents to trust their instincts and seek medical advice whenever symptoms seem serious or unusual.

Gentle Ways to Support a Baby with Teething Fever

When you’re dealing with a normal teething fever, the name of the game is comfort and gentle care.

Here are time-tested ways to help:

• Offer cool (not frozen) teething rings to soothe tender gums.
• Wipe drool frequently with a soft cloth to prevent rash.
• Give plenty of extra cuddles — skin-to-skin contact can work wonders.
• Keep your baby hydrated with breastmilk, formula, or small sips of water (if appropriate for age).
• Dress lightly to help regulate body temperature.

Over-the-counter medications like infant acetaminophen can be helpful for discomfort — but always follow your pediatrician’s advice first.

Trusting Your Instincts

Here’s the plain truth: you know your baby better than anyone. If that little voice in your heart says something feels “off,” trust it. Even if everything lines up like classic teething fever on paper, you’re the one seeing and holding that child every day. No shame in making a call to the pediatrician just to be sure.

Final Porch Wisdom

Teething fever can rattle even the steadiest nerves. But most of the time, it’s just one more bump in the long, beautiful road of growing up. Keep it simple. Keep it gentle. And remember — this season, like all seasons, will pass.

Your arms, your voice, and a few trusted herbal allies can make all the difference.