The question of the reasons and treatment of teeth grinding in children is a matter of curiosity for many parents. Parents generally notice this issue in their children through the grinding sound of teeth during sleep.

Medically known as bruxism, teeth grinding is an involuntary condition involving clenching and grinding of the teeth. Teeth grinding is more commonly observed in children, especially during nighttime sleep.

We have researched the reasons and treatment options for teeth grinding in children. Let's take a closer look at this topic.

Causes of Teeth Grinding in Children

Why do children grind their teeth, and what are the underlying issues causing this problem?

The exact cause of teeth grinding is not known. It might be related to dental issues, such as misalignment of upper and lower teeth.

Psychological factors contribute to teeth grinding in children, including stress, anger, and anxiety. Family-related issues, exam stress, starting school, etc., can increase stress and anxiety in children, leading to an increase in teeth grinding during sleep. Additionally, hyperactive children may also experience teeth grinding.

Another common cause of teeth grinding in children is the transition from primary (baby) teeth to permanent teeth. During this period of tooth development, different contacts between teeth can result in teeth grinding and clenching.

Apart from these causes, there are also local factors contributing to teeth grinding, such as dental filling issues or improper alignment of teeth during closure.

Teeth Grinding in Children

Teeth grinding and clenching are frequently observed in children, with approximately 7-15% of children experiencing this issue. After the age of 12, teeth grinding is less common.

While some studies suggest a genetic predisposition for teeth grinding within families, the fundamental cause is generally believed to be stress.

Teeth grinding in children can lead to various problems, including jaw pain, headache, earache, tooth sensitivity, restricted jaw movements, and audible grinding noises. If teeth grinding is related to dental structure or tooth problems, it may result in tooth wear, jaw joint disorders, and sleep problems.

Treatment for Teeth Grinding in Children

When confronted with teeth grinding in children, it is essential to determine whether the issue is related to dental problems or if there is an underlying cause. Seeking assistance from a dentist is crucial in understanding the root cause.

The dentist will investigate whether the child's teeth grinding is due to psychological stress or an issue with the teeth. If stress and emotional factors are identified, parents should find ways to comfort and reduce stress for their children, such as reading a favorite book or playing a beloved game. If these methods prove ineffective, the child may need psychological support.

Parents can gently nudge their sleeping child when grinding is observed, helping the child transition into normal sleep. This method, practiced nightly until teeth grinding diminishes, has been shown to be effective.

While medical mouthguards are used in adults, they are generally not applied to developing children unless there is severe wear. If significant wear is present, specialist doctors may create protective mouthguards, but they are generally avoided in developmental stages to avoid interference with growth.

Untreated teeth grinding can lead to jaw and dental problems. Therefore, it is essential to consult a dentist for your child as soon as possible. For more detailed information on this topic, feel free to contact us and take advantage of our free consultation service.