Hi M.,
I just posted a few days ago regarding close to the same thing. Teething is a hard thing to determine because they cannot tell you what is going on and you have to guess by their age and symtoms. My daycare actually was concerned my baby girl might have an ear infection because she was so fussy and didn't want to go down for a nap. I decided it was teething because when I gave her Motrin (she is 6mo old) and some oragel, her crankiness seemed to decrease.
My girl doesn't like teething rings or anything either. I have heard cold/wet washcloths work, putting carrots or something that retains their cold in the mesh bags for them to chew on, and I have heard those teething tablets are wonderful. Have not tried the tablets, but am thinking about it.
From what I understand, and what was also said below, is they could be teething for months and not break a tooth. So it can be frustrating and confusing and just plain hard. I am with you girlfriend...this is going to be tough. Keep trying different things and maybe you will find something that works for your little one. There are tons of remedies, you just need to find one that fits for you.
Good luck.
L.