Teething: signs, soothing and what to avoid

Teething: the signs, what it doesn't cause, safe ways to soothe, what to avoid, when to call

Reviewed October 19, 2026against 2 sources, listed below

When to call

A fever, diarrhea (for more than a day), or a lot more crying than usual: those aren't teething, so call the pediatrician.

Signs: fussiness from swollen, tender gums; more drooling; chewing on things; a rash around the mouth from saliva.
Teething doesn't cause fever or diarrhea, and doesn't usually mean much more crying.
Soothing: rubber or plastic teething toys, a chilled washcloth, a gentle gum massage with a clean finger, cold water in a sippy cup for babies over 6 months. Nothing frozen solid.
Avoid: benzocaine or lidocaine gels (linked to a serious, sometimes fatal blood condition), homeopathic teething tablets or gels, teething necklaces of amber, wood, marble or silicone (choking and strangulation), liquid-filled teethers, alcohol.
The AAP notes a pain reliever at night may help a very fussy child sleep: ask the pediatrician first.

A few logged nights of wake-ups and feeds help tell a teething stretch from something else; a fever or diarrhea isn't teething, and is a call.

Education from the sources listed, not medical advice. If you're worried about your child, call your pediatrician; in an emergency, call 911.