Bruxism (Teeth Grinding) in Children

Bruxism, or the grinding of teeth, is common in both children and adults. While some children grind their teeth during the day, nighttime grinding during sleep is most prevalent. The effects of bruxism vary depending on how frequently and intensely the child grinds their teeth, as well as the underlying causes.

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Symptoms of Bruxism

Parents may notice intense grinding sounds at night, while subtle daytime clenching can be difficult to detect. Common signs of bruxism include:

  • Frequent headaches
  • Injured teeth or gums
  • Loud grinding or clicking sounds
  • Rhythmic tightening or clenching of jaw muscles
  • Painful jaw muscles, especially in the morning
  • Increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods

How Bruxism Can Affect Your Child’s Teeth

Bruxism involves the upper and lower jaws grinding together, which can lead to:

  • Moderate to severe jaw discomfort, headaches, and ear pain
  • Excessive tooth wear, especially if caused by jaw misalignment
  • Chipped teeth, gum injury, or facial pain
  • Increased tooth sensitivity
  • In severe cases, early onset of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder

Causes of Bruxism

Common causes include:

  • Jaw misalignment (“bad bite”)
  • Stress or anxiety from school, exams, or life changes
  • Developmental disorders or brain injuries
  • Side effects of certain medications

Depending on the cause, pediatric dentists may recommend protective interventions such as botulinum injections for muscle relaxation or a nighttime mouthpiece to prevent damage.

Treatment for Bruxism

Most children naturally stop grinding by age 13. Meanwhile, treatment focuses on reducing damage and addressing underlying causes:

  • Jaw alignment: Corrective dental treatments like crowns or occlusal adjustments.
  • Stress-related grinding: Relaxation classes, therapy, or exercises. Muscle relaxants may be prescribed in some cases.
  • Protective devices: Nighttime mouth guards, bite splints, or bite plates prevent teeth from grinding against each other.

If you have questions or concerns about bruxism or teeth grinding, please contact our office.