Many children grind their teeth at night, a condition called bruxism. It happens when kids clench their jaws or move their teeth back and forth, often without realizing it, during sleep. While occasional grinding is common and usually harmless, frequent grinding can wear down tooth enamel, cause jaw pain, or lead to headaches. Understanding why children grind their teeth and knowing when to seek help can protect your child’s dental health and comfort.
At Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Beaverton, Dr. Tesha Waggoner helps families address teeth grinding through gentle evaluations and practical solutions. She completed advanced training in pediatric dentistry and understands the unique dental needs of growing children. Dr. Tesha provides personalized care in a welcoming environment where children feel comfortable, supported by helpful tools such as weighted blankets and the comforting presence of her in-office dogs, Meyers and CJ.
Common Causes of Teeth Grinding in Children
Several factors contribute to bruxism in kids. Stress and anxiety often trigger teeth grinding, whether from school pressures, changes at home, or general worries. Children may also grind their teeth when their top and bottom teeth don’t align properly or when they experience physical discomfort from teething or an earache.
Sleep issues also play a role. Kids with sleep apnea or other breathing difficulties may grind their teeth as their bodies react to disrupted sleep patterns. Some children grind because it’s a natural response to growing pains or developmental changes in their jaw and teeth alignment. Understanding the root cause helps determine the best approach to managing the grinding.
Signs Your Child May Be Grinding Their Teeth
You might not witness the grinding itself, but several signs can alert you to the problem. Common indicators include:
- Grinding sounds: Listen for grinding or squeaking noises while your child sleeps at night.
- Tooth damage: Check for worn, chipped, or flattened teeth during regular tooth brushing.
- Jaw soreness: Your child may complain of a sore jaw upon waking or rub their face.
- Headaches: Frequent morning headaches can signal nighttime teeth grinding.
- Eating changes: If your child suddenly avoids crunchy foods or complains that chewing hurts, tooth grinding could be the cause.
- Tooth sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods is another clue.
Early detection makes treatment more effective, so monitoring these symptoms helps catch bruxism before it causes significant damage.
When to Seek Professional Help
Occasional grinding might not require immediate intervention, but persistent grinding deserves professional attention. Schedule a dental cleaning if you notice worn tooth surfaces, if your child reports regular jaw pain or headaches, or if grinding disrupts their sleep quality. Some situations require more urgent evaluation.
If your child grinds so loudly that it wakes other family members, if you spot visible damage to their teeth, or if they show signs of sleep disturbances beyond grinding, contact a pediatric dentist. According to research from the American Dental Association, dentists have observed an increase in teeth grinding among their patients, underscoring the need to monitor this condition. A professional assessment can identify underlying issues and prevent long-term complications.
Treatment Options and Solutions
Treatment for teeth grinding depends on the severity and cause. For many children, the condition resolves on its own as they mature and their permanent teeth come in. In the meantime, several approaches can help manage the problem and protect your child’s teeth. For stress-related grinding, establishing calming bedtime routines can help. Try relaxing activities before bed, like reading together or gentle stretches. Limiting screen time in the evening helps too.
If jaw alignment issues contribute to grinding, early evaluation can determine whether orthodontic intervention may be beneficial. In cases where grinding causes significant tooth wear or pain, a custom-fitted night guard might be recommended. These protective devices cushion the teeth and reduce damage from grinding. Not every child needs a night guard, but when appropriate, they provide adequate protection. Your pediatric dentist can evaluate whether this solution makes sense for your child’s specific situation.
Preventive Measures You Can Take at Home
Several home strategies can reduce teeth grinding or minimize its effects. Start with good sleep hygiene. Keep a consistent bedtime schedule, create a quiet and dark sleeping environment, and maintain a comfortable room temperature. These factors promote better sleep quality, which can reduce grinding episodes. Address stress through open communication. Talk with your child about their worries and help them develop healthy coping mechanisms. Physical activity during the day can also help children release tension and sleep more soundly. Avoid giving your child caffeine, which can interfere with sleep and potentially increase grinding.
Regular dental checkups allow for ongoing monitoring of your child’s teeth and jaw development. Your dentist can track any changes and adjust recommendations as your child grows. Maintaining good oral hygiene also helps protect teeth from further damage if grinding occurs.
Protect Your Child’s Smile at Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry
Teeth grinding in children is manageable with the right approach and professional guidance. Whether your child grinds occasionally or shows signs of more persistent bruxism, early evaluation helps protect their developing teeth and ensures comfortable sleep. Dr. Waggoner provides thorough assessments and practical solutions tailored to each child’s needs, all in a supportive environment designed to put kids at ease.If you notice signs of teeth grinding in your child or have concerns about their dental health, the team at Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry is here to help. They accept Delta Dental Premier insurance and work with most other dental insurance plans, making quality pediatric dental care accessible to families throughout Beaverton and the surrounding areas. Contact the office to schedule an appointment and give your child the personalized attention they deserve.