When your baby is unsettled, drooling more than usual or chewing on everything in sight, it’s natural to wonder whether it’s “just teething” or something that needs a closer look. Teething is a normal part of your child’s development, and most of the time it’s mild and settles on its own. But every now and then, symptoms can point to something else entirely — and knowing the difference can help you feel confident about what to do next. This guide walks through what typical teething usually looks like, what’s outside the ordinary, and when it’s worth getting your little one checked.
What typical teething usually looks like
Teething is generally a mild, temporary process as your baby’s first teeth make their way through the gum. Common signs parents report include:
- Increased drooling
- Rubbing, gnawing or chewing on toys, fingers or other objects
- Mild irritability or a bit more clinginess than usual
- Slightly disrupted sleep for a few nights
- Red or slightly puffy gums in the area where a tooth is coming through
Some parents also notice their baby feels a little warmer than usual during teething. This is commonly reported, but it isn’t a reliable sign of teething on its own and shouldn’t be relied on to explain a genuine fever. If your baby has a true fever, teething is unlikely to be the cause, and it’s worth reading on below.
Teething symptoms are usually manageable at home and settle within a few days as the tooth comes through. If your baby seems otherwise well — feeding, sleeping and behaving mostly as usual, just a little more unsettled — this is generally consistent with ordinary teething.
Signs that are not typical teething
Some symptoms fall outside what’s expected with normal teething and are worth a dental check, a call to your GP, or medical attention, depending on what you’re seeing. These include:
- A true fever. A temperature that’s clearly elevated — not just slightly warm gums or cheeks — is not a normal part of teething. If you’re ever concerned about a fever in your baby, contact your GP or a medical service for advice.
- Unusual facial or gum swelling. Puffiness that looks more pronounced than typical gum swelling around an emerging tooth, or swelling of the face or jaw.
- A tooth that looks discoloured or visibly damaged. For example, a tooth coming through with an unusual colour, or one that appears chipped, cracked or otherwise not as expected.
- Persistent crying or distress that doesn’t settle. If your baby remains very unsettled despite your usual comfort measures, this is worth having checked.
- Refusing to eat or drink for an extended period. Ongoing refusal, rather than just being a little fussier than normal at mealtimes.
- Any sign of infection, such as pus, a bad smell, or a gum area that looks increasingly inflamed rather than settling.
None of these signs are things you need to diagnose yourself. If you notice any of them, it’s simply a good reason to get your baby checked — by Tooth Town for anything dental-related, or by your GP or a medical service if you’re concerned about their general health, such as a genuine fever.
Comfort measures for ordinary teething
For everyday teething discomfort, simple, safe comfort measures at home are usually enough:
- A clean, cool teething ring for your baby to chew on
- A clean, cold washcloth for gentle chewing
- Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger
If you’re considering pain relief medication for your child, please check with your pharmacist or GP for advice on what’s appropriate and how much to give, rather than guessing based on general information. They’ll be able to advise on what’s suitable for your baby’s age and weight.
When it’s fine to just ask us
If you’re not sure whether what you’re seeing is ordinary teething or something worth a closer look, you don’t need to work it out on your own. It’s always fine to call Tooth Town and describe what you’re noticing, or to book a check-up so we can take a look. We would much rather see your baby for a reassuring check than have you wondering at home.
Frequently asked questions
At what age does teething usually start?
Teething timing varies quite a bit from baby to baby. If you have questions about your child’s individual timing or development, our team is happy to talk it through at an appointment.
Can teething cause a high fever?
A genuine fever is not considered a normal part of teething. Some parents notice their baby feels slightly warmer during teething, but this shouldn’t be relied on to explain an actual fever. If your baby has a temperature that’s clearly elevated, contact your GP or a medical service for advice.
Is it safe to let my baby chew on a teething ring?
A clean, cool teething ring is a commonly used comfort measure for teething. If you have questions about what’s suitable for your baby, our team or your GP can offer guidance.
My baby’s gum looks swollen and red — is that normal?
Mild redness or puffiness around an emerging tooth can be a normal part of teething. However, swelling that looks more significant, spreads to the face, or doesn’t settle is worth having checked by our team.
Should I use a teething gel?
We’d recommend checking with your pharmacist or GP before using any product on your baby’s gums, so they can advise on what’s appropriate. Our team can also talk through comfort options at an appointment.
What if I’m just not sure whether it’s teething?
That’s completely understandable, and it’s exactly the kind of thing our team is happy to help with. You’re welcome to call us to describe what you’re noticing, or book a check-up so we can take a proper look.
What to do next
If your baby is unsettled and you’re unsure whether it’s ordinary teething or something that needs a closer look, our team is here to help you work it out. Book an appointment and we’ll check your baby gently and let you know what — if anything — needs to happen next. If you’re worried about a genuine fever or your child’s general health, please contact your GP or a medical service.
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace an individual assessment. Your child’s clinician will confirm what’s most appropriate for them after examination.