Teeth Grinding in Children: Should You Worry?

Hearing your child grind their teeth at night can be unsettling, especially when the sound is loud enough to wake you. Known medically as bruxism, teeth grinding is fairly common in childhood. In fact, studies suggest that around 31% of children grind their teeth while sleeping.

Fortunately, many children outgrow the habit without developing dental problems. However, frequent grinding, especially when accompanied by pain or tooth damage, deserves attention. Below, we'll explore why children grind their teeth, which warning signs to watch for, and when to consult the top pediatric dentist in Anchorage.

Why Do Children Grind Their Teeth?

Bruxism happens when a child involuntarily clenches or grinds their teeth. It often occurs during sleep, though some children also clench their jaws while awake.

There isn't always a clear reason why a child grinds their teeth. Several factors may contribute, including:

• Stress or anxiety: Changes at school, family difficulties, or emotional tension may contribute to nighttime grinding.
• Sleep disturbances: Children with disrupted sleep or certain sleep-related breathing problems may be more likely to grind their teeth.
• Oral discomfort: Teething or irritation inside the mouth may contribute to grinding, particularly in younger children.
• Certain medications: Some medications used to treat ADHD and other conditions have been associated with childhood bruxism.
• Other health conditions: Children with certain developmental or neurological conditions may grind their teeth more often.

Is Teeth Grinding Normal in Young Children?

Yes. Teeth grinding is especially common in toddlers and preschoolers. You might first notice it when your child's baby teeth start coming in, or you may hear it occasionally as they get older.

The good news is that many children eventually stop grinding their teeth on their own. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the habit often fades as children grow, although some continue grinding into their teenage years.

If your child occasionally grinds their teeth but sleeps comfortably and doesn't complain of pain, there's usually no reason to panic. Simply mention it at their next dental appointment so their dentist can keep an eye on how their teeth are developing.

When Should You Worry About Your Child Grinding Their Teeth?

Frequent grinding deserves a closer look, especially if your child starts experiencing discomfort or you notice changes in their teeth. Some children grind loudly without developing problems, while others experience symptoms that aren't immediately obvious.

Here are a few signs to watch for and what they might mean:

What Can Help a Child Who Grinds Their Teeth?

The best approach depends on your child's age, symptoms, and whether grinding has affected their teeth. For many children, monitoring the habit is all that's needed. Others may benefit from changes at home or additional dental care.

What Parents Can Do at Home

You can't always prevent teeth grinding during sleep, but a few simple habits may help your child relax and make it easier to spot potential problems.

• Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Reading together, listening to calming music, or practicing gentle breathing exercises can help your child wind down before bed.
• Talk about stress: If your child seems worried about school or changes at home, give them opportunities to talk about what's bothering them.
• Keep track of symptoms: Notice how often you hear grinding and whether your child complains of morning headaches or jaw discomfort.
• Watch their sleep: Snoring, restless sleep, or unusual breathing patterns are worth discussing with their pediatrician.

Avoid buying an over-the-counter night guard without first speaking with a dentist. Children's teeth and jaws are still developing, and an improperly fitted appliance could cause additional problems.

How a Pediatric Dentist Can Help

If your child grinds frequently or it seems uncomfortable, a pediatric dentist can take a closer look. During an evaluation, the dentist may:

• Examine your child's teeth for unusual wear, chips, or other signs of damage.
• Ask about symptoms and sleep habits to better understand when grinding occurs and whether it's causing discomfort.
• Consider your child's dental development when deciding whether monitoring or additional care is needed.
• Recommend further evaluation if symptoms suggest a sleep-related breathing problem or another medical concern.

For children without significant symptoms, regular monitoring through pediatric dental examinations may be enough. In some cases, a dentist may recommend a custom night guard to protect your child's permanent teeth. These appliances create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth to reduce damage from grinding. 

Pediatric Dentistry of Alaska: Supporting Healthy Smiles

Most children who grind their teeth eventually outgrow the habit without serious dental problems. Still, persistent discomfort or visible tooth damage deserves professional attention.

Dr. Paige Ryan brings specialized training and experience to children's dental care. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and completed her pediatric dental training through NYU-Langone Health at Alaska Native Medical Center. As a board-certified pediatric dentist and Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Ryan specializes in caring for children's developing teeth and oral health, including the unique needs of children with special healthcare needs.

Serving Anchorage and surrounding communities, Kids Dental Tree offers a welcoming environment focused on children's oral health. If you're concerned about your child's teeth grinding, schedule an appointment with Kids Dental Tree, a trusted choice for families seeking Alaska pediatric dentistry.