Waking up to hearing your child grind their teeth at night is stressful as a parent. That unsettling sound may raise questions in your mind: Is this harmful? Will it affect their teeth long-term? Should I take them to a dentist? Child grinding teeth is more common than many think, especially among toddlers and younger kids.
Most of the time, it’s not bad right away, but it’s good to know why it occurs and when it might be an indication of something else. Being aware of the possible causes, signs, and treatments will allow you to take the right steps to assist your child’s oral health.
What Is Teeth Grinding in Children?
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a disorder in which a child grinds or clenches their teeth, usually during sleep. Although it sounds serious, it’s quite normal in small children, particularly those under the age of 7. Some children just outgrow it naturally as their jaws become more mature and they lose their baby teeth.
Teeth grinding in children often goes unnoticed until a parent hears the noise at night or a dentist points out wear on the teeth. Since it usually happens during sleep, your child may not even realize they’re doing it.
Common Reasons Kids Grind Their Teeth
There is not always one specific reason that kids grind their teeth, but there are a few reasons that they may grind their teeth. Some of the most frequent teeth grinding causes in kids are listed below:
- Stress or anxiety – Young children get stressed, particularly if something is changing at school or home.
- Teething or discomfort – New teeth coming in can be annoying and cause them to grind.
- Crooked teeth – If the top and bottom teeth do not meet, grinding can be the result.
- Medical conditions – Certain medical conditions, like ADHD or sleep disorders, may be a causative factor.
- Habit – It’s just a habit in other kids that varies with increasing age.
If you’re unsure about the cause, it may be helpful to consult a dentist for a professional opinion and personalized advice.
Signs Your Child Might Be Grinding Their Teeth
Because teeth grinding often happens while kids are asleep, it might not be easy to spot. But there are a few things you can look out for:
- Complaints of jaw pain or headaches, particularly in the morning
- Worn-down or chipped teeth
- Trouble sleeping or restless nights
- Sensitivity when eating cold or hot foods
- Unusual noises during sleep
If any of these signs are present, a visit to a dentist near you can help determine the severity of the grinding and whether any treatment is needed.
How Teeth Grinding Can Affect Your Child’s Oral Health
In most cases, teeth grinding doesn’t cause long-term damage, especially in younger children whose teeth and jaws are still developing. However, if it continues into the teenage years or if it’s severe, it can lead to:
- Tooth enamel wear
- Increased sensitivity
- Jaw discomfort
- Sleep disturbances
- Problems with permanent teeth alignment
To avoid these outcomes, regular checkups with professionals who specialize in children’s dentistry in Blackfalds are essential. They can monitor your child’s development and recommend treatments if necessary.
When to Seek Professional Help
While mild cases often don’t need treatment, you should consider making a dental appointment if:
- The grinding is frequent or loud
- Your child complains of pain.
- You notice visible damage to their teeth.
- Sleep quality is affected.
If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s a good idea to speak with a dentist near Red Deer who has experience with children’s dental concerns. They can evaluate your child’s teeth and recommend the best course of action, whether it’s a simple adjustment at home or a protective mouthguard for nighttime use.
How to Help at Home
There are also steps you can take at home to help reduce or prevent teeth grinding:
- Create a calming bedtime routine – Soft music, reading, or a warm bath can help your child relax.
- Talk about feelings – If stress or anxiety is the cause, helping your child talk through their emotions may reduce grinding.
- Monitor screen time and diet – Caffeine and screen time before bed can interfere with sleep quality.
- Watch for other sleep problems – Snoring or frequent waking may point to other sleep disorders that need attention.
A combination of home care and advice from a dental expert can make a big difference.
Book an Appointment to Keep Your Child’s Smile Safe
If you’re concerned about your child’s nighttime teeth grinding, don’t wait for it to become a bigger issue. Contact Blackfalds Dental Centre today to schedule a checkup and get peace of mind from professionals who care.
