Red flags & when to go in person for Teething (Guidance)

Audience: adult

Teething is a natural process when a baby's teeth start to come through the gums. It often causes mild discomfort, irritability, and drooling. Most babies manage teething symptoms at home with simple care. However, some signs may indicate a need for in-person medical care. This guide helps adults recognize red flags during teething and explains when to seek professional help. Telemedicine can support many teething concerns by providing advice and reassurance, but it cannot replace physical exams or urgent care when serious symptoms appear. Knowing what to watch for helps keep your child safe and comfortable during this common stage of development.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) lasting more than 24 hours — seek immediate in-person care.
• Severe diarrhea or vomiting — go to a healthcare facility promptly.
• Signs of gum infection such as pus, severe redness, or swelling — require urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing advice on mild teething discomfort and symptom management.
• Answering questions about teething and when to seek care.
• Assessing visible symptoms via video to guide next steps.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing or treating infections or serious complications.
• Performing physical exams or procedures.
• Managing severe symptoms like high fever, dehydration, or breathing difficulties.

What is Teething?

Teething happens when a baby's teeth start to break through the gums. It usually begins around 6 months of age but can vary. Common signs include drooling, chewing on objects, mild gum swelling, and fussiness. These symptoms often come and go and usually do not require medical treatment.

Common Teething Symptoms and Care

Typical symptoms include mild irritability, swollen gums, and a slight increase in temperature (not a fever). You can help by gently rubbing your baby's gums, offering teething rings, and keeping them comfortable. Avoid giving medication without consulting a healthcare provider.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care

Some signs may mean your baby needs prompt medical attention. These include:

If you notice any of these, seek in-person care immediately.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine can provide guidance on managing mild teething symptoms, answer your questions, and help decide if your baby needs to see a doctor in person. It is useful for routine advice and reassurance but cannot perform physical exams or treat severe symptoms remotely.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit, have the following ready:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the advice given by the healthcare provider. Monitor your baby's symptoms closely. If symptoms worsen or red flags appear, seek in-person care promptly. Keep notes of any new symptoms or changes to share with your provider if needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have your baby's age and medical history available.
• Note the start and description of symptoms.
• List any medications or home remedies used.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space for the video call.
• Be ready to show your baby's mouth or affected areas on camera if possible.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice carefully.
• Monitor your baby's symptoms and behavior.
• Seek in-person care if symptoms worsen or red flags appear.
• Keep a record of any new symptoms or changes.
• Contact your provider again if you have concerns or questions.

FAQs

Is it normal for babies to have a fever when teething?

Mild temperature increases can happen during teething, but a high fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) is not typical and may indicate another illness. If your baby has a high or persistent fever, seek medical care.

Can I give my baby medicine for teething pain?

Some over-the-counter pain relievers may be used, but always consult a healthcare provider before giving any medication to your baby to ensure safety and correct dosing.

When should I worry about my baby's teething symptoms?

Watch for red flags like high fever, severe diarrhea or vomiting, difficulty breathing, signs of infection in the gums, or refusal to eat or drink. These require prompt medical attention.

Can telemedicine replace a doctor's visit for teething problems?

Telemedicine is helpful for advice and mild symptom management but cannot replace in-person exams for serious or unclear symptoms. It helps decide when an in-person visit is needed.

Sources

1. Teething — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Teething and Your Baby — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Teething: Symptoms and Care — Mayo Clinic.
4. Teething in Infants — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your baby shows any serious symptoms or you have concerns, please seek prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.