At Bee Home Pediatrics, we know that teething can turn even the happiest little honeybee into a fussy, drooling bumble. While teething is a natural part of your toddler’s development, it often comes with discomfort, sleepless nights, and sometimes even a low-grade fever. But when should you be concerned, and when is it time to visit the hive for expert care? Dr. Margie Diaz-Ochu is here to help guide you through the buzzing world of teething and fevers.
Teething: A Sticky but Sweet Milestone
Your little one’s first teeth usually start pushing through the gums around 4 to 7 months, but every bee in the hive is different! The process can be uncomfortable, leading to:
- Increased drooling (get those bibs ready!)
- Irritability or fussiness
- Gum swelling and tenderness
- Chewing on everything (watch out, even your fingers aren’t safe!)
- Slightly elevated temperature (but not a true fever)
The Fever & Teething Connection: Separating Fact from Fiction
It’s a common belief that teething causes fevers, but in reality, teething itself does not cause a high fever. A mild temperature (below 100.4°F) can accompany teething due to gum inflammation, but anything higher is likely due to another cause—such as an underlying infection.
When to Fly Over to Bee Home Pediatrics
If your little honeycomb is experiencing any of the following, it’s time to see Dr. Diaz-Ochu:
- A fever over 100.4°F
- Severe or persistent fussiness that doesn’t improve
- Diarrhea, vomiting, or rash along with teething symptoms
- Swollen gums with signs of infection (redness, pus, or extreme pain)
- Refusal to eat or drink, leading to dehydration
How to Soothe a Teething Toddler
While you can’t rush teething, there are ways to ease your little bee’s discomfort:
- Chilled (not frozen) teething rings provide gentle relief.
- A clean, cold washcloth can be soothing to chew on.
- Gentle gum massage with clean fingers may help.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (like infant acetaminophen) can be used as directed by your pediatrician.
Sweet, Personalized Care at Bee Home Pediatrics
At Bee Home Pediatrics, we’re more than just a doctor’s office—we’re your family’s medical home, where personalized and toddler-centered care is the honey that keeps your little one thriving. Because we are a direct-pay pediatric clinic, Dr. Diaz-Ochu spends more time with your child than a traditional pediatrician would, ensuring that each milestone—teething included—is met with expert guidance and care.
If your baby bee is struggling with teething or fever concerns, let’s keep their health buzzing along! Call Bee Home Pediatrics today at 435-513-PEDS.