There's no good evidence that teething causes a runny nose, congestion, or a cough. When a runny nose shows up during teething, it's almost always a coincidence: babies begin teething at around 6 months — the very age their built-in protection from mom fades and they start catching more everyday colds. So the drippy nose is usually a mild virus, not the teeth.
Why does this matter? Because writing off cold or infection symptoms as "just teething" can mean missing something that needs attention.
Why teething and runny noses happen at the same time
For the first few months of life, antibodies passed from mom help shield a baby from many infections. Around 6 months, that protection tapers off — right as teething begins and babies are putting everything in their mouths. The result is a stretch where colds and teething overlap constantly, which is exactly why they get linked in people's minds. Overlapping in time isn't the same as one causing the other.
Teething vs. a cold: how to tell
- Drooling & gum-chewing: Teething — Yes; Cold / virus — Not especially
- Runny nose / congestion: Teething — No (coincidental); Cold / virus — Yes
- Cough or sneezing: Teething — No; Cold / virus — Often
- True fever (≥100.4°F/38°C): Teething — No; Cold / virus — Possible
How to help a baby with a runny nose
- Gently wipe the nose and apply a little barrier cream to prevent soreness.
- Offer plenty of fluids (breast milk or formula as usual).
- Use saline drops and, if needed, a gentle bulb or nasal aspirator to clear a stuffy nose before feeds and sleep.
- Keep the air comfortable; a cool-mist humidifier can help.
When to see the doctor
Check with your pediatrician if your baby has a runny nose and any of these: a true fever (100.4°F/38°C or higher, and immediately if under 3 months), fast or labored breathing, thick discolored mucus with a worsening cough, symptoms lasting more than about 10 days, poor feeding, or unusual drowsiness. Don't let "teething" explain away a baby who seems unwell.
Keep reading
See the real teething symptoms, the teething timeline, and the related myth — can teething cause a fever?
Frequently asked questions
Can teething cause a runny nose?
There's no solid evidence that it does. A runny nose during teething is usually a coincidental mild cold, since babies catch more colds around the same age they start teething.
Can teething cause congestion or a cough?
No. Congestion and coughing point to a cold or other virus, not teething. Treat them as you would any mild illness and watch for warning signs.
How do I treat a runny nose from "teething"?
Since it's usually a cold, keep the nose clear with saline drops and gentle suction, offer fluids, and wipe gently to prevent soreness. See a doctor if symptoms worsen or last more than about 10 days.
How can I tell teething from a cold?
Teething brings drooling, gum-chewing, and fussiness. A runny nose, sneezing, cough, or true fever point to a cold instead. They often overlap, but the nose symptoms come from the virus.
Medical disclaimer. This article is provided by Babbez for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, examination, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your pediatrician about your child's symptoms, and never disregard or delay it because of something you have read here. In an emergency, or if your baby has trouble breathing, contact your local emergency services immediately. Babbez makes no warranties as to the completeness or accuracy of this information and accepts no liability for any action taken in reliance on it. See our full Medical Disclaimer.
Written and reviewed for general accuracy by the Babbez Editorial Team. Guidance reflects widely accepted recommendations from trusted health authorities (see Sources). Last updated: July 2026.
Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics (aap.org, HealthyChildren.org); Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic.org); NHS (nhs.uk).