What To Know About Toddler Teeth Grinding

Parents want nothing more than a healthy, peaceful sleep for their little ones. So it can be worrisome to witness your toddler constantly clenching their jaw and grinding their teeth while sleeping. 

The medical community refers to teeth grinding as “bruxism,” and it’s fairly common in young kids. An estimated 20% to 30% of children get into the habit of teeth grinding, especially subconsciously during the night. 

While most toddlers eventually outgrow teeth grinding, it can be helpful to know how to stop your toddler from grinding their teeth in their sleep — and what might cause the habit.

[Related: Causes and Consequences of Teeth Grinding]

Why Does My Toddler Grind Their Teeth?

According to the University of Michigan Health System, you may notice your child begin to grind their teeth starting as early as 6 months, or later around age 4 or 5 when they start developing adult teeth. Although there isn’t just one reason for a toddler to grind their teeth, we can speculate on some of the more common root issues that might cause them to start. 

Here are a few possible causes for toddler teeth grinding:

• Finding a correct bite with misaligned teeth
• Trying to relieve pain due to ear aches or teething discomfort
• A result of certain medications, such as ADHD medication
• Stress and anxiety
• Health issues, such as sleep apnea, epilepsy, cerebral palsy or night terrors
• Having a history of sleep bruxism in the family

But more often than not, they’re simply at an age where it’s common. They’ll usually grow out of it by their teenage years.

Side Effects From Toddler Teeth Grinding

Typically, doctors don’t consider teeth grinding a harmful habit because it’s very common and most kids grow out of it in just a few years. In most cases, a parent’s anxiety about their toddler may be the biggest “side effect” of the entire teeth-grinding ordeal. 

However, some toddlers who constantly grind their teeth can experience jaw pain or have trouble falling and staying asleep. 

[Related: Four Signs You Might Need a New Retainer]

Treatment for Toddler Teeth Grinding

If you notice your toddler grinding their teeth every day or night, you may want to take them to their dentist.

During their visit, your toddler’s dentist will examine your child’s teeth to check for any chipped enamel, breaks or cracks. The dentist may also check for misaligned teeth to pinpoint a cause for their constant grinding. 

In some cases, especially with older children, the dentist may fit your child with a nightguard. Nightguards can help protect your child’s teeth from the damage that aggressive teeth grinding causes. This is most common in older children — toddlers have a difficult time fitting a nightguard to their changing teeth as well as keeping one in at night. 

While a dental visit can be of assistance, you can also help soothe your toddler’s teeth grinding at home. Try establishing a calming before-bed routine that may relieve them of some stress and anxiety. Consider incorporating extra reading or snuggle time so that they feel calm and comfortable before dozing off.

[Related: How To Deal With Minor and Major Tooth Pain]

Connect With Cascadia Dental Specialists Today!

If you find that your toddler is waking up with a sore jaw, rubbing their teeth or complaining of pain, contact Cascadia Dental today to set up an appointment. 

Visit our website to learn more about common dental hygiene tips and treatments and to explore our dental health services.

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