If you’ve ever checked on your child at night and heard a grinding or squeaking sound coming from their teeth, it can be a little alarming. Teeth grinding during sleep—also called bruxism—is fairly common in children, and many kids eventually outgrow it.
But how do you know when nighttime teeth grinding is harmless and when it’s something you should mention to your child’s dentist?
At Inspire Kids Dental in Ooltewah, TN, Dr. Ruminson provides compassionate dental care for kids and helps parents understand what’s normal as their child’s teeth and jaws grow and develop.
Why Do Kids Grind Their Teeth at Night?
There isn’t always one clear reason a child grinds their teeth. In fact, several factors may contribute to nighttime teeth grinding.
Children may grind their teeth as their mouths grow and their bite changes. It can also happen while baby teeth are coming in, falling out, or being replaced by permanent teeth.
Other possible factors can include stress or anxiety, sleep disturbances, certain medications, or discomfort elsewhere in the mouth.
Sometimes, there is no obvious cause at all.
If you notice your child grinding their teeth occasionally, it doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. However, it is worth mentioning at their next dental visit so their teeth can be checked for signs of excessive wear.
Can Teeth Grinding Damage My Child’s Teeth?
Occasional grinding may not cause any problems. However, frequent or forceful grinding can sometimes wear down the surfaces of the teeth.
A dentist may look for signs such as:
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Flattened or worn teeth
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Chipped or damaged enamel
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Tooth sensitivity
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Jaw soreness or discomfort
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Headaches, particularly in the morning
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Complaints that the teeth or jaw hurt
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Unusual wear patterns on baby or permanent teeth
Because children may not realize they are grinding their teeth, parents are often the first ones to notice it.
Is Teeth Grinding Normal in Toddlers?
Teeth grinding can occur in toddlers and young children, particularly while their teeth and jaws are developing.
If your toddler grinds their teeth but is otherwise comfortable and their teeth look healthy, your dentist may simply monitor the habit during routine visits.
However, if the grinding seems severe, your child complains of pain, or you notice visible changes to the teeth, it’s a good idea to have them evaluated.
What About Teeth Grinding in Older Kids?
As children get older, persistent grinding deserves a closer look.
Your dentist can examine your child’s teeth, bite, jaw, and oral development to determine whether the grinding appears to be causing damage or whether additional evaluation may be appropriate.
This is one reason regular dental checkups for kids are so important. Small changes in tooth wear may be difficult to notice at home but can often be identified during an exam.
Should My Child Wear a Night Guard?
Not necessarily.
Although adults who grind their teeth may wear night guards, treating bruxism in a growing child is different. Children’s mouths, teeth, and jaws are continually developing, so a night guard should not simply be purchased without first talking with your child’s dentist.
If your child’s grinding is significant, the dentist can determine whether treatment is necessary and discuss the appropriate options based on your child’s age and development.
When Should I Take My Child to the Dentist for Teeth Grinding?
Consider scheduling a dental evaluation if your child is grinding frequently or if you notice tooth wear, chipped teeth, sensitivity, jaw discomfort, headaches, or other changes.
You should also mention grinding at your child’s routine dental appointments even if it doesn’t seem to be bothering them.
A dental exam can help determine whether the teeth are being affected and whether the habit simply needs to be monitored.
Kids Dental Care in Ooltewah and Collegedale, TN
At Inspire Kids Dental, we know that parents have a lot of questions about their children’s teeth—and we want you to feel comfortable asking them.
Dr. Ruminson provides dental care for kids in Ooltewah, Collegedale, and surrounding Chattanooga-area communities, with an emphasis on creating positive dental experiences and helping families understand their child’s oral health.
Whether you’re concerned about nighttime teeth grinding, cavities, tooth development, brushing habits, or simply need to schedule your child’s next checkup, our team is here to help.
Is your child grinding their teeth at night?
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Ruminson at Inspire Kids Dental in Ooltewah, TN, and let us take a look at your child’s teeth and help you determine whether the grinding is something that simply needs to be monitored or deserves a closer evaluation.