Reviewed by Dr Kathryn Stanley
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Reading Time: Three Minutes
Red cheeks are a common concern in infants and are frequently noticed during the teething months. When cheek redness occurs without a fever or other symptoms, it is most often related to localized irritation rather than illness.
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Why Does My Baby Have Red Cheeks Without a Fever?
When babies are otherwise acting normally, the redness is often linked to teething, sensitive skin, or everyday environmental factors. A baby’s facial skin is quite sensitive. Teething pressure, drooling, and shifts in temperature can all make the cheeks look red even when the rest of the body feels normal.
How Teething Can Cause Red Cheeks
As teeth begin moving closer to the surface of the gums, increased blood flow in the jaw can make one or both cheeks look red. This flushing often comes and goes and may be more noticeable later in the day.
Drooling can also contribute. Saliva that stays on the skin can irritate the cheeks and chin, especially with frequent wiping.
Teething alone does not cause a fever. If redness is accompanied by a fever, another cause should be considered.
Other Common Causes of Red Cheeks in Babies
When teething does not fully explain cheek redness, other everyday factors may be involved. These causes are common in infants and are often related to skin sensitivity or environmental exposure rather than illness.
- Dry or sensitive skin: Cold weather, dry air, or naturally sensitive skin can cause the cheeks to look red or irritated.
- Temperature changes: Warm rooms, overbundling, or quick shifts between temperatures can lead to temporary flushing.
- Saliva or food irritation: Drool, formula, or food left on the skin can irritate the cheeks.
- Contact irritation: Soaps, wipes, detergents, or lotions may trigger redness that improves once the product is removed.
Red cheeks should gradually improve as irritation settles. If redness persists for several days, spreads beyond the cheeks, or is accompanied by a fever or changes in feeding or comfort, schedule a visit with your pediatrician or a healthcare provider.
When to Ask a Pediatric Dentist About Teething
Teething is a natural stage of early development, and each child experiences it a little differently. A pediatric dentist can provide guidance on teething timelines, comfort measures, and what changes around the mouth are expected as teeth begin to emerge.
If you have questions about teething or your child’s early oral development, the team at Stanley Pediatric Dentistry is available to help. To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Overland Park, call (913) 345-0331 or visit us at 8575 W 110th St Suite 310, Overland Park, KS.
FAQs
When should I worry about my baby’s red cheeks?
Red cheeks usually improve as irritation settles. If redness lasts several days without improvement, spreads beyond the cheeks, or is accompanied by a fever or changes in feeding or comfort, a healthcare provider should evaluate the cause.
What does a teething cheek look like?
A teething cheek often appears pink or flushed on one or both sides of the face. The redness may come and go and is commonly more noticeable later in the day.
Why do babies get red cheeks when teething?
Teething can increase blood flow in the jaw and lead to more drooling, both of which can irritate the skin. This combination often makes the cheeks look red even when a baby otherwise feels well.
