Once your baby starts developing teeth, they start drooling (excess saliva flowing outside the mouth), which can cause irritation in the baby’s skin and lead to a rash called a teething rash or drool rash.

The constant wetness in the baby’s skin irritates it, and it might develop a harmless rash. The chance of irritation increases when the skin is rubbed during hugging, clothing, or playing. Drool rash can mostly be treated at home. 

Read more about the causes, symptoms and treatment options for teeth for rash.

Can Teething Cause a Rash?

Yes, teething can cause a rash. Once your baby starts to develop teeth (mostly 6 to 12 months), their salivary glands produce more saliva, which often spills out of their mouth and drools on the cheeks, chin, and neck. When this persistent moisture on the skin combines with friction from clothing, playing, or hands, it can result in irritation and the development of a rash.

Teething Rash on Face

Teething rash on the face is one of the most common forms of drool rash. It typically affects the chin, cheeks, and around the mouth due to the constant exposure to saliva. 

The skin in these areas may appear red, chapped, or slightly swollen. The additional irritation occurs if your baby frequently puts their hands on the mouth, worsening the rash.

To prevent or minimize teething rash on the face, you can follow the below steps,

• Use a soft and dry cloth to wipe away drool frequently.
• Apply a thin layer of a baby-safe moisturizer or barrier cream to protect the skin.
• Use absorbent bibs to keep saliva off the baby’s chest and neck.
• Keep the baby’s face clean and dry. Particularly after feeding or playtime.

Does Teething Cause Diaper Rash?

No, teething does not directly cause diaper rash. But there is a possible link. Babies who are teething may swallow excess saliva, which can lead to more frequent bowel movements and looser stools. The increased moisture in the diaper area can make a baby susceptible to diaper rash.

Additionally, teething can sometimes cause a slight increase in body temperature, leading to excessive sweating and dampness in the diaper area, further increasing the risk of irritation.

To prevent or manage diaper rash during teething, you can follow the below steps,

• Change diapers frequently to keep the area dry.
• Use a diaper cream with zinc oxide to create a protective barrier.
• Allow the baby to have some diaper-free time to air out the skin.
• Keep the diaper area clean with gentle wipes or lukewarm water.

Teething Rash on Body

Teething rash on the body is possible but very rare. This can happen when drool spreads to other areas of the body like the chest, arms or neck. It can also occur if saliva is transferred from hands to other body parts. Some other factors cause teething rash on the body. They are,

• Prolonged contact with wet clothing or bibs.
• Friction from fabrics that rub against sensitive skin.
• Sensitivity to certain materials or baby products.

To manage teething rash on the body, you can follow the below steps,

• Dress your baby in soft, breathable fabrics.
• Change damp clothing promptly to prevent prolonged moisture exposure.
• Apply a mild, fragrance-free lotion to soothe irritation.
• Give your baby lukewarm baths with gentle cleansers to maintain skin hydration.

Treatment and Prevention of Teething Rash

Teething rash does not need any doctor’s intervention and can mostly be treated at home. The key to managing drool rash is to keep the affected areas dry, clean and protected. Here are some tips that help you soothe and prevent teething rash,

• A gentle, hypoallergenic cream or petroleum jelly protects the skin from moisture.
• Keeping the baby’s skin dry by frequent wiping with a soft cloth can help prevent excess drool from irritating.
• Avoid harsh soaps, lotions, or wipes with alcohol or fragrances that can worsen the rash.
• Regularly clean toys, pacifiers, and objects the baby frequently puts in their mouth.
• Providing your baby with safe teething toys can help reduce excessive drooling by keeping their gums engaged.

When to See a Doctor

Teething rash is usually harmless and resolves when managed properly. However, in some cases, it may spread to other areas and even lead to infections such as pus, swelling, or fever. At such times, home care tips might not work, so consulting a doctor is recommended.

Takeaway

The teething period in babies might cause rashes due to excess drooling. The spread of the drool to other parts of the body like the neck, chest or arms also could lead to a rash. The teething rashes in babies are not harmful and can be treated at home by following the care tips. If you fail to care for them, they may spread and even lead to infection. So, taking care of your baby is very important. Contact Oris Dental Center to consult with the best pediatric dentist in Dubai.

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