Can Teething Cause Ear Infections? What Parents Need to Know
When babies start teething, parents notice many new behaviors drooling, chewing on everything, crying, and sometimes pulling at their ears. Because teething symptoms and ear infection symptoms can overlap, many parents wonder:
“Can teething cause ear infections, or are the symptoms just similar?”
This detailed guide explains the connection between teething and ear infections, the differences parents should look for, and how to comfort your baby safely. You’ll also learn when to contact a pediatrician or a Dentist in Springfield, MA if symptoms become concerning.
This article is written in a simple, supportive tone to help parents understand what’s normal, what’s not, and how to protect their baby’s health.
What Happens During Teething?
Teething is a natural process where a baby’s first teeth their primary teeth begin to push through the gums. Most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months, but it can happen earlier or later.
Teething causes several changes in your baby’s mouth and behavior.
Physical Symptoms of Teething
Teething often causes:
- Swollen or tender gums
- Increased drooling
- Irritability and fussiness
- Chewing on hands, toys, or clothes
- Slight rise in temperature (not a high fever)
- Sleep disruptions
These symptoms vary from baby to baby. Some show almost no signs of discomfort, while others struggle with each new tooth.
Why Do Babies Pull Their Ears During Teething?
Many parents mistake teething for an ear infection because babies often grab or scratch at their ears. The reason is simple:
- The nerves in the gums and jaw run very close to the ears.
- When teething causes gum pressure, babies may feel it in the ear area.
- This “referred pain” makes them tug at their ears, even though the ear is perfectly healthy.
Ear pulling alone does not mean infection.
Understanding Ear Infections in Babies
Ear infections are extremely common in children especially between 6 months and 2 years old.
The medical term for an ear infection is otitis media, an inflammation of the middle ear caused by bacteria or viruses.
Why Babies Get Ear Infections Easily
Young children are more prone to ear infections because:
- Their Eustachian tubes are shorter and narrower
- Fluid gets trapped more easily
- Immature immune systems respond slowly
- Colds, allergies, and sinus infections spread quickly to the ears
Symptoms of a True Ear Infection
Ear infection symptoms differ from teething symptoms.
Signs include:
- Fever (above 100.4°F / 38°C)
- Difficulty sleeping (due to lying down increasing pressure)
- Fluid draining from the ear
- Loss of appetite
- Hearing difficulty or not responding to sounds
- Severe irritability or constant crying
Unlike teething, an ear infection often develops suddenly and becomes more intense over time.
Teething vs. Ear Infection: Key Differences
Because the symptoms overlap, parents often confuse these two conditions. But there are important differences.
Symptom Comparison Table
Symptom | Teething | Ear Infection |
Ear pulling | Common | Possible but usually with other symptoms |
Fever | Low or none | High fever likely |
Drooling | Very common | Less common |
Chewing behavior | Common | Not common |
Sleeping issues | Mild | Severe |
Crying | On and off | Intense, persistent |
Appetite | Slight drop | Significant drop |
Runny nose or cold | Sometimes | Very common |
The Big Indicator Fever
Teething does not cause high fever.
Ear infections almost always involve a noticeable fever.
If your baby’s temperature is above 100.4°F (38°C), think infection, not teething.
Can Teething Cause an Ear Infection?
Here’s the most important answer:
No teething does not cause an ear infection.
Teething and ear infections may happen at the same time, but one does not cause the other.
However, teething can:
- Increase saliva
- Cause gum discomfort
- Irritate nerves connected to the ear
- Lead to behaviors that mimic ear infection
But it cannot create the bacterial or viral infection required for an actual ear infection.
Why Parents Get Confused
Several teething behaviors look like signs of infection:
- Ear pulling
- Crying at night
- Restlessness
- Mild temperature increase
This overlap leads many parents to believe teething causes ear infections, but medically, there is no direct connection.
Can Teething Make an Existing Ear Infection Feel Worse?
Yes teething can increase overall discomfort, leading to:
- More ear tugging
- More fussiness
- More nighttime crying
But the infection itself is unrelated.
What to Do: Treatment & Comfort Tips
Whether it’s teething discomfort or an ear infection, your baby needs comfort and care. Here’s what you can do.
If It’s Likely Teething
Try these safe and effective relief methods:
Cold Teething Toys
Cold reduces swelling and numbs the gums.
Gentle Gum Massage
Use a clean finger to apply gentle pressure.
Cold Washcloth Chew
Wet and chill a washcloth babies love to chew on the texture.
Extra Comfort at Night
Rocking, holding, or comforting helps ease teething anxiety.
Pain Relief (If Recommended)
If symptoms are strong, pediatricians sometimes approve:
- Infant Tylenol
- Infant Motrin (over 6 months)
Never use numbing gels with benzocaine they’re unsafe for infants.
If It Might Be an Ear Infection
Call your pediatrician if:
- Fever appears
- Symptoms last longer than 2–3 days
- Baby seems unusually irritable
- Fluid leaks from the ear
- Baby won’t eat or drink
- Symptoms worsen at night
At-Home Support Until You See a Doctor
- Keep baby hydrated
- Use warm compresses
- Keep baby upright
- Use doctor-approved pain relievers
Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial ear infections, but viral ones must heal on their own.
Why Babies Pull on Their Ears During Teething
Ear pulling is one of the most misunderstood teething behaviors.
Referred Pain Explained
The nerves of the jaw, gums, and ear canal are closely connected. Pressure from a teething tooth stimulates those same nerves.
When Ear Pulling Is Harmless
- No fever
- Normal appetite
- No crying when lying down
- Symptoms fluctuate
When Ear Pulling Means Something More Serious
- Constant pulling
- Crying when touching the ear
- Fever
- Fluid drainage
- Redness around the ear
The Most Common Causes of Ear Infections in Babies
Ear infections are not caused by teething but by the following:
Upper Respiratory Infections
Colds and sinus infections increase mucus, which blocks the Eustachian tube.
Allergies
Excess mucus also increases infection risk.
Bottle-Feeding While Lying Down
This position allows milk to enter the middle ear.
Small Eustachian Tubes
Babies’ tubes clog more easily than adults’.
Taking the Next Step in Your Baby’s Health Journey
As a parent, it’s normal to worry when your baby is uncomfortable. Understanding the difference between teething symptoms and ear infection symptoms helps you make the right choices quickly.
If your baby shows signs of an ear infection especially fever, persistent crying, or drainage seek medical help promptly. If symptoms seem related to teething, offer gentle comfort and monitor closely.
Whether you are caring for teething discomfort or looking for guidance on ear-related symptoms, your pediatrician and dental provider are your best partners in keeping your child happy and healthy.
Teething can feel overwhelming, but with the right information, you can respond with confidence and protect your baby’s well-being.
Conclusion
Teething does not cause ear infections, but the overlapping symptoms can easily confuse parents. Understanding the key differences especially fever, appetite changes, and nighttime pain helps you know when to comfort your baby at home and when to call a doctor.
Ear infections are extremely common, and early treatment can prevent complications. Teething, on the other hand, is a normal developmental milestone that comes with temporary discomfort.
If you’re unsure whether your baby’s symptoms are from teething or something more serious, you should always contact your pediatrician or speak with a qualified Dentist for safe guidance.
Your child’s comfort and health always come first and now you have the knowledge to support both.
FAQs
How do you tell if it’s an ear infection or tooth?
Ear infections often involve fever, nighttime pain, fluid drainage, and crying when lying down.
Teething causes drooling, gum swelling, chewing, and mild irritability, but no high fever.
Do babies mess with their ears when they are teething?
Yes. Babies often pull, rub, or tug at their ears during teething because gum pain can radiate to the ear area due to shared nerve pathways.
What is the most common cause of ear infections in babies?
The main cause is fluid buildup behind the eardrum due to colds, viral infections, allergies, and blocked Eustachian tubes.
How to tell if ear pulling is teething or ear infection?
If your baby is pulling their ears but eating well, sleeping normally, and has no fever, it’s likely teething.
If you see fever, drainage, or severe irritability, think ear infection.
Is there a link between teething and ear infections?
No. Teething does not cause ear infections. They may occur around the same time, but they are medically unrelated.
What is silent ear infection in babies?
A silent ear infection has no obvious symptoms, but it can still affect hearing. Signs include sleep problems, reduced responsiveness to sound, and increased fussiness.
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