Most of the time parents are happy just to get their kids to fall asleep, but have you ever noticed your child grinding their teeth? Teeth grinding, commonly known as “bruxism” is a problem that can lead to dental complications in adults. Bruxism is characterised by clenching and grinding of the teeth. But, is it bad for babies and children to be grinding their teeth? 

 What are the causes of teeth grinding?

While there is no hard evidence about the cause of babies grinding their teeth, the majority of experts believe that they do this to soothe sore gums during teething. Additionally, some think that your little ones are simply testing out their new smile to get used to the feeling of their teeth.

Teeth grinding in children can often be linked to other causes and in some instances, grinding can also relate to airway and breathing problems. In some cases, grinding may be temporary or may come and go. With persistent teeth grinding, the enamel surfaces of the teeth can wear down and cause sensitivity.

Evidence shows that teeth grinding in children can be related to one or a combination of the following problems:

  • central (neuropathic disorder, anxiety)
  • genetic and local (posture, mouth breathing).

It is common for children to grind their teeth when they are stressed or anxious, which can occur while the child is asleep or awake. There has been a positive correlation between children who have sleep-disordered breathing patterns (e.g frequent mouth breathing and snoring during sleep) and teeth grinding at night.

What can I look out for as a parent?

It can be difficult to tell if your child is grinding their teeth, as they may not be aware of it. You might hear grinding noises while they sleep – sometimes loud enough to hear from another room, or a sibling may notice it. Signs such as a sore jaw or pain when chewing can also indicate grinding.
Teeth grinding is often linked to stress or anxiety, so if your child seems worried or upset, especially alongside night-time grinding, calming bedtime routines may help. If grinding is associated with mouth breathing or snoring, it’s worth speaking with a paediatric ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist to assess their airway and determine if further evaluation, such as a sleep study, is needed.

OUR TOP TIPS FOR BRUXISM:

1. DO NOT PANIC – bruxism can be common amongst children and can sometimes be temporary.

2. Talk to your dentist – they will be able to discuss potential causes for your child, and refer you for further assessment if required.

3. Look for other issues during sleep such as snoring, restless sleeping, mouth breathing and let your dentist know.

Teeth Cleaning Kids

OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS!

This varies from patient to patient, most of the time, the damage is minimal and causes no issues prior to the teeth falling out. If you’re concerned, book into your dentist so that they can assess this for you.

 

Splints are generally not recommended for children as they are continuously growing.

 

Signs and symptoms to look out for include:

  • headache, jaw joint and/or ear pain
  • aching teeth, particularly just after waking up
  • aching and/or stiffness of the face and temples just after waking up
  • aching or stiffness in the jaws while chewing, particularly during breakfast
  • clenching the jaw when angry, anxious or concentrating
  • temperature-sensitive teeth
  • cracked or chipped tooth enamel
  • tooth indentations on the tongue
  • raised tissue on the inside of the cheek caused by biting
  • loose teeth.

Generally not, unless there is also dental decay present – your dentist will let you know if this is the case.

 

USEFUL DENTAL RESOURCES AND FURTHER READING

A great article from the team at BetterHealth Victoria 
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/teeth-grinding

Thanks to our wonderful Oral Health Therapist, Chandra
Chandra works at the Napier Clinic in Essendon.
If you would like to talk to him or any of our amazing team, about this or any other questions you may have, please contact us on 03 9372 8960.

paediatric dental clinic Melbourne - Chandra Setiawan