Teething Rash: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Babies begin teething usually around 4 to 6 months of age. At this stage, they can drool extensively which can form a rash. Teething rash is both common and manageable. Here’s everything you need to know about what it is, what to expect, and how to offer your little one comfort as their baby teeth come in.

What is a Teething Rash and Its Causes?

Teething rash, also known as drool rash, is a type of irritation on the skin that develops from excessive saliva during teething.  

As your baby takes the next step in their oral development and their first teeth are about to make their debut, they may start to drool more often. The extra saliva can help them break down foods and protect their small mouths from bacteria, however, when saliva constantly touches the skin, it can cause a rash. 

Symptoms of a Teething Rash?

From that very first smile to their first steps, each milestone acts as a reason to celebrate. Another exciting first? Baby’s first teeth! But, as most parents and caregivers know, teething comes with a host of challenges—disruptions to routine, crankiness, and a teething rash on the face. According to Healthline, a teething rash can occur on the chin, cheeks, neck, and even the chest.  

Very Well Health states that symptoms of a drool rash are not limited to just physical signs. Besides a rash, additional symptoms of teething may include: 

• Fussiness or irritability 

• Sleeplessness 

• Not wanting to eat 

• Biting 

• Swollen gums  

Oftentimes, a teething rash is relatively mild in nature and is not a major cause for concern, however, it’s important to comfort your little one to help manage their discomfort as their teeth break through their sensitive gums.  

What Does a Teething Rash Look Like?

A teething, or drool rash, will usually occur around 4 to 6 months, which is around the time their first tooth is on the way.  So, what does a teething rash look like exactly? A teething rash, can be identified by the following: 

• Inflamed, red, and bumpy skin around the mouth and chin area 

• Some teething rashes can spread to the neck 

• A slight bumpy or dry and chapped appearance around affected areas 

A teething rash is different from other rashes or skin irritations in that it can keep appearing and disappearing over time.  

Teething Rash Comfort Tips

There are a few things you can do to help manage the symptoms of a teething rash and better prevent it from spreading:  

• Hygiene is key: Gently wash your little one’s face, specifically the mouth and chin area, to keep their skin free of excessive drool or saliva.  

• Protect sensitive skin: Consider applying a cream or ointment designed to work as a barrier to further protect your baby’s skin from forming a rash. First, make sure to clean and dry the area before you apply the ointment, then gently dab it onto your baby’s sensitive skin.  

• Keep the area dry: Pat your baby’s skin around the mouth and chin with a clean cloth to keep the area dry. Be sure not to rub the skin to avoid further irritation.  

How to Prevent Teething Rash?

You can’t keep your baby from drooling, but with the right steps, you can help protect their skin from developing a teething rash.  

• Use a bib: Bibs are great for collecting excessive saliva or spit-up. Be sure to change them out frequently throughout the day. 

• Keep a clean cloth at hand: Clean, soft washcloths are great for wiping off that extra drool throughout the day and after feedings.  

• Gentle does it: When wiping your sensitive baby’s skin, gently dab at the area to avoid additional irritation.  

• Keep it baby-friendly: Baby’s skin is tender and sensitive at this stage. To help prevent a rash from occurring, opt for products that won’t add to the irritation. Look for unscented and hypoallergenic laundry detergents, soap, and baby care products.  

• Food consideration: After mealtimes, once your little one is done feeding, gently wipe away leftover food and drool from your baby’s skin. Certain types of foods, such as those that are more acidic, can also cause additional irritation.  

• What baby wears: If your little one’s outfit becomes wet, make sure to change it. Easy-off shirts and onesies can help make it easier to keep your baby dressed in clean, dry clothes throughout the day.  

• Pacifier use: Drool or saliva can become trapped in the area between your baby’s skin and the pacifier. Try taking breaks from a pacifier whenever you can, and make sure to dry your baby’s face gently before offering a clean pacifier.  

Caring for Baby’s First Teeth

A teething rash can come with its own set of challenges, but that also means your little one is almost ready to reveal their first toothy grin! Here’s how to care for your child’s baby teeth once they come in: 

• Use a damp washcloth to gently wipe your baby’s tender gums after each feeding to help remove leftover debris and plaque to better support a healthy mouth.   

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean baby’s gums and teeth such as the Look for a baby toothbrush that’s specifically designed for babies 0-2 and has extra-soft bristles that are ideal for gentle cleaning and massaging your baby’s teeth and tender gums. Some options also include a cushioned head to further protect your baby’s gums and have an ergonomic, non-slip handle that’s designed for parents’ hands for easier brushing.  

• Brush with training toothpaste that can aid with cavity prevention to help keep teeth and gums in good condition. Look for mild-tasting formulas that are sugar-free and specifically designed for baby’s tender gums and teeth.  

• Once their teeth begin to touch, make sure to floss them once a day to further remove any food debris and plaque that may be trapped in between teeth.  

• To help keep your little one’s smile healthy, be sure to visit a pediatric dental professional as soon as that first baby tooth comes in or by the age of 1. You can expect a professional cleaning as well as any personalized recommendations.  

Kid’s Oral Care Recommendations

Complete Your Child’s Oral Care Routine  

• Brush your baby’s tender gums and teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush for baby ages 0-2 twice a day for two minutes each session  

• Switch to an electric toothbrush once your child is 3 to remove more plaque for healthy teeth and gums such as the Oral-B Kids Electric Toothbrush for kids ages 3+ featuring Disney and Marvel characters.   

• Encourage healthy habits with the Disney Magic Timer App which helps kids brush up to 2X longer.   

• Visit their dental professional twice a year for professional cleanings and checkups.  

Equip your kids’ oral care routine with the toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash that’s right for them.