Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, is a medical condition that can occur at different stages of life. It is common in infants, toddlers, and young children but usually stops by the teenage years. However, if left untreated, it can lead to damage to permanent teeth and even temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
Fortunately, most kids outgrow bruxism, but regular dental visits and parental support can help reduce the negative effects of teeth grinding. If your child has lost their baby teeth, it’s important that we work together to prevent teeth grinding. By doing so, we can prevent damage to their permanent teeth and avoid the development of TMJ.
Teeth grinding may start when a child is only 6 months old, or when they get their first tooth. This behavior continues as babies grow into toddlers. Toddlers’ teeth grinding typically occurs while they’re sleeping. Reasons for teeth grinding in babies and toddlers include:
The sound of grinding teeth is certainly one parents don’t want to hear, at all. There are natural remedies or preventative measures available, depending on your child’s age.
Baby Grinding Teeth Remedies
Babies often grind their teeth to relieve the pain of their new teeth coming in. Providing your child with any of the following remedies should help relieve their pain:
Toddler Grinding Teeth Remedies
A common reason for toddlers’ teeth grinding is because it provides them with a way to relieve stress. Toddlers are also more likely to grind their teeth in their sleep. Giving your child a calming bedtime routine that is relaxing and stress-reducing can significantly help. Some calming bedtime routines include:
Bruxism treatment usually isn’t required until children have lost their baby teeth. If your child has their first tooth or is starting to get baby teeth—we hope to see them for their first dental visit!