Teething and tooth eruption in infants: A cohort study

Abstract

Objective. Many symptoms are attributed to teething in infants. There is little evidence to support these beliefs, despite their implications for clinical management. We investigated relationships between tooth eruption, fever, and teething symptoms. Methods. Prospective cohort study. Participants. Twenty-one children 6 to 24 months old attending 3 suburban long-day care centers ≥3 days/week. Measures. 1) Daily temperature recording and examination of alveolar ridges for tooth eruption (dental therapist). 2) Daily questionnaires - symptoms over preceding 24 hours (staff and parents independently). 3) Final questionnaire - beliefs/experiences related to teething (parents). Definitions. Erupti..