Time interval for teething symptoms: an 8 day interval ranging from 4 days before to 3 days after emergence of a tooth
Symptoms that can be seen with teething:
(1) a low-grade fever
(2) increased biting (use of a teething ring)
(3) gum rubbing
(4) increased salivation with drooling
(5) sucking
(6) irritability
(7) increased wakefulness
(8) decreased appetite for solid foods
(9) ear rubbing
(10) facial rash
Examination of the gums prior to eruption of the tooth will show gingival inflammation over the tooth.
Findings that may or may not be related with teething:
(1) diarrhea
(2) sleep disturbances
Findings that cannot be ascribed to teething:
(1) fever over 102°F
(2) decreased appetite for liquids
(3) cough
(4) pulmonary congestion
(5) rash on neck, trunk or extremities
(6) vomiting
No single symptom identifies teething. Diagnosis requires:
(1) recent emergence of a tooth OR emergence of a tooth in the next few days
(2) exclusion of other explanation
