A.,
I think your baby is just beginning a nightmare phase. I would go quickly in to the room, before he is raging standing and screaming. That is- if you are able to hear on the monitor that it is happening. Then soothe him back to sleep, repeating in a calm quiet voice, "you're always safe with mama." over and over. Hopefully it will pass soon. Be careful not to start a habit of this night-time visit.
In my opinion, I think it is very important to communicate with your baby from a very early age. 10 months in not too young to verbalize what is going on, and that you will be there if he has a bad dream, but it is important that he get his sleep. This age of babies has a greater understanding of what you say, more-so than what a lot of people think. They may not be able to say back what they are thinking, but they have come to understand what they are told, and talked to about from loved ones.
I think overall- to let your baby know that you are nearby, and that they are "always safe with mama" will ease the nightmares. Moms know the difference between the various cries. You determine when to soothe the nightmare away, and when it is a "hey- let's visit again tonight mama"- and curb out the visits. Make sure it is not a poopie diaper and that he doesn't have a burp left- and have a belly ache.
You mentioned teething. Yes, teething can wake a baby. Many people say try the baby orajel. I found that to be helpful when that was the reason for any discomfort. Again, you will know the difference in what they cry is about. Communicate with your baby so he knows what to expect.
Good luck and God bless!
A.