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Drooling, chewing, and sore gums

Also called: Teething

Drooling, chewing on things, and sore gums in a baby are usually signs of teething, which often starts around 6 months. Teething doesn't cause high fever or diarrhea.

Common causesTeething
Usually serious?No
Get checked ifFever over 100.4°F or baby very fussy
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Possible poisoning or something swallowed? Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.

Overview

Teething can make babies fussy and wake at night.

High fever is not from teething.

When to get medical care

Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayFever over 100.4°F, or very fussy and won't feed.
See a doctor soonConcerns about teeth or gums.

Causes

Caused by new teeth coming in.

OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause drooling, chewing, and sore gums. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • TeethingOften treated at home

    New teeth coming in can cause drooling, chewing, fussiness, and sore gums.

What you can do at home

  • Offer a cold teething ring.
  • Gently rub gums with a clean finger.

Medicines

Acetaminophen (or ibuprofen over 6 months) if very uncomfortable. Avoid numbing gels and teething necklaces.

At the doctor

Diagnosed by exam.

Questions you may be asked

  • Age
  • Fever

The exam

A mouth exam.

Tests

  • None

Prevention

Comfort helps.

  • Cold teething toys

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

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Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.