HAVE YOU EVER CHECKED on your sleeping child at night and discovered that he or she is tooth grinding? Just the sound of it probably made your own jaw ache!
Teeth Grinding Is Common Among Children
As many as 30% of children grind their teeth, both during the day and at night. You may notice it especially between ages 3 and 6—but many teens also grind their teeth. In adults, bruxism is usually related to stress and malocclusion (a misaligned bite). In children, it’s also linked to changes in the way that teeth fit together. Often, it’s just a way for them to get used to new teeth coming in.
Chronic Bruxism Into Adulthood Can Be A Problem
Many parents wonder at which point they should be concerned for their children. Most kids grow out of clenching and grinding their teeth within a few months. However, chronic bruxism throughout adolescence and adulthood can have some problematic side effects, including:
- headaches and jaw pain
- tooth fractures
- tooth loss
- damaged fillings and crowns
Talk To Us About It
If your child is grinding his or her teeth, our first item of advice is this: don’t worry about it too much! However, let us know about it so that we can keep an eye out for signs of damage.
We Can Help You Find Solutions If It Becomes A Problem
If bruxing is causing damage to your child’s teeth, or contributing to headaches and jaw pain, we can find a solution to help them relax their teeth and jaw. This might include fitting a night guard that can protect teeth, or it could be as simple as finding a soothing bedtime routine that will relax your child before sleep. Talk to us at your child’s next appointment.