If you hear a grinding or scraping sound coming from your child’s room at night, your little one may be grinding their teeth in their sleep. This is called bruxism.
Teeth grinding is especially common in toddlers and preschoolers, although it can start even before a baby’s first birthday. The good news is that most children eventually grow out of it. However, some continue to grind their teeth into their teenage or adult years.
Because frequent, long-term teeth grinding can wear down and damage permanent teeth—and may lead to jaw pain, headaches, or other discomfort—it’s worth paying attention to the habit and talking with your child’s healthcare provider or dentist if it continues.
Bruxism
Bruxism is the medical term for grinding or clenching your teeth. In children, it most often happens while they’re asleep and can occur during naps as well as overnight sleep. Because it happens while they’re sleeping, kids usually aren’t aware that they’re doing it.
Signs
Signs Your Child May Be Grinding Their Teeth
The first clue may be the sound itself. Teeth grinding can sometimes be loud enough for you to hear from another room. You may also notice that your child’s teeth look chipped, flattened, or more worn than usual.
Some children may wake up with discomfort after grinding their teeth during sleep, including pain in the jaw, face, or ears.
Causes
What Causes Teeth Grinding in Children?
There isn’t one clear cause of bruxism, and researchers are still learning more about why some children grind or clench their teeth. Stress and anxiety may play a role. Children who are worried about school, family, friendships, or other changes in their lives may be more likely to clench or grind their teeth.
Other factors that may contribute to teeth grinding include:
- Teeth that don’t fit together properly
- Irritation or discomfort in the mouth
- Teething or an earache
- Allergies that make it harder to breathe comfortably during sleep
- Certain sleep disorders
- Some health conditions, including autism or cerebral palsy
- Certain medications, including some stimulant and antipsychotic medicines
Secondhand smoke exposure may also be linked to bruxism. This is another important reason to keep children away from tobacco and cannabis smoke.
When to be Concerned
The good news is that most children stop grinding their teeth by around age 6. Still, it’s a good idea to talk with your child’s pediatrician or dentist if you notice any of the following:
- Your toddler or preschooler grinds their teeth loudly during sleep and regularly wakes up with face, ear, or jaw pain.
- Your child grinds their teeth at night and doesn’t seem to be getting enough restful sleep. In some cases, a sleep study may be recommended to look for an underlying sleep problem.
- Your older child has chipped, cracked, flattened, or noticeably worn teeth. These changes may mean their teeth need additional protection.
- Your older child frequently complains of jaw soreness or discomfort. Bruxism that continues into the teen or adult years can contribute to problems involving the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and the muscles around the jaw.
If you’re concerned about your child’s teeth grinding, don’t hesitate to bring it up at their next visit. Your child’s pediatrician and dentist can help determine whether the grinding needs further evaluation or treatment.
What Helps
There are several ways you can support your child if they grind or clench their teeth. The best approach may depend on your child’s age and what is causing the bruxism.
Create a calming bedtime routine. A relaxing routine can help your child settle down before sleep. Try a warm bath or shower, calming music, deep breathing, or reading a favorite book together. Older children and teens may want to create their own stress-relief routine, with your guidance and support. For children of all ages, it’s also helpful to turn off screens at least one hour before bedtime.
Talk with your child’s healthcare team. Since teeth grinding can sometimes be connected to another health concern or medication, mention it to your child’s pediatrician and dentist. In some situations, adjusting when a medication is taken may help reduce nighttime grinding. Never change your child’s medication schedule without first talking with their healthcare provider.
Ask about a night guard for older children. If your child’s dentist or orthodontist notices significant tooth wear or damage, they may recommend a mouth guard to protect the teeth while your child sleeps. While over-the-counter options are available, a custom-fitted night guard made from a mold of your child’s teeth may provide a more comfortable and effective fit.
Summary
In many children, bruxism eventually fades away on its own. However, some kids may need a little extra support to break the habit and prevent damage to their teeth.
Teeth grinding doesn’t automatically mean your child is experiencing a mental health problem. Stress can contribute to nighttime grinding, but there are many other possible reasons it may occur.
If your child continues to grind their teeth, talk with their pediatrician and dentist. Together, they can help identify possible contributing factors and find ways to protect your child’s teeth, jaw, and long-term oral health.