Teething Or Infection? Know What Is Causing Your Baby’s Fever

Many times, when your baby is fussy and doesn’t seem fine, you start wondering why they are acting that way. Is it teething or an infection that suddenly made them so irritable and cranky? Figuring out the difference may not always be easy. However, there are specific signs that can help you identify the underlying cause and respond correctly. 

While teething can cause intense discomfort in babies, infections can present other symptoms that may require medical attention. Parents should stay informed about the signs of both conditions so they can care for their babies and seek professional help when needed. 

Quick Summary:

To quickly identify if the condition is an infection or just teething problems, you should look for key signs:

Teething may or may not have:

• Fever

• Swollen or red gums

• Tendency to bite

• Crying or irritable mood

• Slight drop in appetite

Infections show up with:

• Mild or high fever

• Runny nose

• Ear pain

• Stomach discomfort

• Loss of appetite

• Unusually sleepy

What is Teething?

Teething is a physiological process in which a baby’s first set of teeth appears. These are known as primary teeth or milk teeth that push through the gums and may cause mild to moderate discomfort to the baby. The timing varies; some babies get their first tooth as early as 4 months, while others may take longer than 6 months. 

Who Is Most Affected?

Teething is a natural process that typically occurs between 4 and 12 months in infants. However, each of them may experience teething differently. Some infants show clear signs of stomach problems, irritability, and drooling; others may not. There is no specific gender that is more or less affected than the other. Research studies have shown that about 68% of infants show signs of teething, while 32% remain asymptomatic. 

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How Common Is It?

Teething is a normal developmental phenomenon of early childhood. Almost all babies develop a set of 20 teeth by the time they are 2 to 3 years old. 

What Is An Infection?

Infection occurs when germs invade the body and cause sickness. In babies, infections can take many forms. They may suffer from viral or bacterial infections, leading to upset stomach, coughs and colds, and ear infections.

Who Is Most Affected?

Babies are vulnerable to mild, moderate, and even severe infections because their immune system is still developing. As their bodies fight off germs, fever is a common symptom of infection. Premature babies or those with low birth weight are more susceptible to infections due to their fragile body constitution. 

How Common Is It?

Babies may fall sick or develop multiple infections, which often resolve on their own. Sometimes, if symptoms persist, they may require medical support to recover. Infections are common in babies and young children until their immune systems gradually become stronger and can fight infections without a hassle. 

Common Signs and Symptoms of Teething

Some of the common signs of teething are as follows:

• Occasional mild fever or no fever at all

• Swollen and tender gums

• Desire to chew or bite increases

• Drooling

• Tends to put their hands in the mouth

• Reduced appetite for some infants

• Irritable mood

• Stomach problems

• Disturbed sleep

Common Signs and Symptoms of An Infection

Infections happen when pathogens enter the body and make the baby sick. Some of the signs of infections in babies include:

• High fever: A temperature above 100.4℉ is an indication of an illness.

• Excessively cranky: when babies are irritable and fussy, and nothing can comfort them, it means they are not well.

• Poor appetite: Lack of appetite and rejection of solid foods indicate an infection. 

• Other symptoms: Runny nose, cough, blocked ears. Ear pain, diarrhea, and stomach pain are all signs of an infection.

• Rashes: If your baby has rashes on the face, torso, legs, and other parts of the body, this indicates an infection

• Symptoms linger: If signs of sickness continue for a few days or worsen over time, it is not teething.

Teething vs Infection Symptoms in Babies

What Is Normal vs. When To Worry

Sometimes, if you find your baby experiencing discomfort, it is better not to sck and relax, considering it as just teething. They might also be experiencing an infection-related illness. Knowing what is normal and when to seek expert advice is essential.

Usually Normal

• Swollen gums

• Gnawing tendencies

• Mildly warm body

• Fussiness 

• Increased drooling

May Need Medical Attention

• High fever

• Ear pain

• Cough and breathing difficulties

• Rashes in the body

• Loss of appetite

• Sleep disturbances

• Excessive crying

Causes or Triggers Of Infection

Infections are caused by germs and make the baby appear sick, unusually tired and irritable. Some of the causes are:

• Exposure to seasonal viruses causes colds, cough, and fever in babies

• Bacterial infections can cause ear pain, throat infections, and stomach ailments

• Their developing immune system can lead to quick infections, causing fever

• Lack of hygiene, such as playing with dirty toys or putting things in the mouth

• Incomplete vaccination can cause infections

• Contact with infected persons may lead to infections 

What Parents Can Do at Home?

Teething is a normal physical development. If parents notice their baby is uncomfortable during teething, they can support them by doing the following:

• Massage the baby’s gums gently with clean hands

• You can give teething rings for gnawing

• Wipe excess drool to avoid skin infections surrounding the lips and mouth

• Excessive gum pain and constant crying may need a consultation

If your baby has an infection, it is important to watch for any warning signs. Mild infections can be easily handled at home. But if your baby has a high fever or other symptoms suggesting they are sick, consult a pediatrician without delay.

• Note down temperatures regularly to notice changes that require medical attention

• Keep your baby hydrated through breast or bottle feeding

• Allow them to have adequate rest

• Give them clean toys to play with to avoid stomach infections

• If the fever is mild, sponge with lukewarm water can bring down temperatures

When Teething Or Infections Need a Doctor

Teething and minor infections do not require medical care. The baby's discomfort often subsides within a few days. If babies develop a high fever or have stomach infections leading to vomiting or dehydration, seeking medical advice is important. Symptoms like unusual lethargy, excessive crying, or refusing to eat also need timely care. 

Expert Insight

According to Dr. Nikhita Gune, Junior Consultant, Paediatric Dentistry at Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital in Mumbai, “Teething, medically known as Odotiasis, is a natural milestone in a baby’s development. This process typically begins between the sixth and 24th months, during which a baby’s teeth start to emerge from the gums. 

Teething is an uncomfortable experience; however, it is normal and usually does not require medical attention. However, if your baby seems uncomfortable for days, it's better not to wait and to reach out to the doctor. Moreover, early treatment reduces the chances of complications and supports an easy recovery.