Go to her but soothe her in the crib. Don't take her out of the crib - change diaper in crib, water, etc. She will eventually learn to soothe. Some kids are better sleepers than others. I learned this after two - took same approach with both and my second is a much better sleeper than my first. In fact, my first still wakes up in the middle of the night sometimes calling for me at three! I would just try to minimize the night wakings by going to her; but try to soothe her in the crib (i.e. cover her if she is cold, change diaper, give pacifier, water, etc) good luck!
Also, i agree with the ear infection possibility. I know that can disrupt sleep in addition to teething. It is just so hard to know why they are exactly crying. Sometimes my 18 month old just needs one quick cuddle b/f bed and goes right to sleep. Other times she is cold and when I cover her she goes right back to sleep.