Little One Grinding Their Teeth? This Might Be Why…

Teeth grinding is pretty common in adults – often put down to stress, lifestyle factors or even medication. However you might be surprised to know that little ones can be teeth grinders too. While it can be alarming to hear, take comfort in the fact you are not alone. Around 30% of children experience some form of teeth grinding or if we want to get technical, bruxism,  at some point. Most common at night, the grinding sound can cause all kinds of concerns. Worried it could be affecting their teeth? Or how can you help them stop? That’s only natural as a parent and again, you are not alone. Here we take a look at some of the most common reasons for teeth grinding in little ones. 

Whatever the reason, rest assured a dentist at LoveTeeth Kids can help with teeth grinding and are always a call away. 

What Is Teeth Grinding?

Teeth grinding is the habit of clenching, jaw tightening or gnashing teeth together. It can happen while awake or more frequently, when you are asleep. Symptoms of teeth grinding vary however common things to look out for are a sore jaw, headaches and sensitive teeth. Grinding can cause dental issues for both adults and little ones depending on the severity. Ultimately finding the cause is the first place to start.  

Why Do Kids Grind Their Teeth?

The reasons children grind their teeth can vary. These are some of the most common causes we discover at LoveTeeth Kids… 

Teething In Progress

Growing teeth is a new sensation for babies. Your child may be trying to soothe any discomfort that they are experiencing. If this is the case, it will normally ease of after the teeth have come through. 

Seeking Pain Relief

Colds, ear aches and sore throats are common with little ones. (That’s why parents often have the sniffles too) One way to soothe themselves is through teeth grinding. They may find the clenching helps them relax and take their mind off the pain. 

Mild Stress

Surely they are too young to be stressed, right? Actually even the mildest form of stress can affect little ones. Tiny changes to routine or not getting enough sleep can cause teeth grinding to come and go during childhood. 

Alignment Issues

Finally, bite issues are something kids dentists see a lot. While they may resolve themselves, speaking to a kid’s dentist and keeping a check on alignment is easier when you start from an early age. 

If you think one of these may be why your little one is teeth grinding, you can gently encourage them to stop. Doing so can prevent symptoms worsening from alignment issues, headaches and worn down enamel. Read on to find out how. 

How Can You Help Your Little One Stop Grinding Their Teeth? 

Firstly, it’s good that you have picked up on the teeth grinding. Now you are aware of it you can track how it is progressing and take action if needed. These are some simple ways to help little ones stop grinding and prevent future issues. 

Create Calm

From morning routines, plenty of rest to relaxing environments, try and set them up to feel as calm as possible. Gentle lighting, not too much noise and the right temperature are all important when they go to bed. Getting enough rest, nutrients and playtime is a balancing act that may need tweaking from time to time to ensure they are relaxed. 

Check Their Temperature

Making sure they are not unwell helps rule out causes. If they have a raised temperature they could be a bit under the weather resulting in teeth grinding to ease discomfort. 

Come And Speak To A Kids Dentist At LoveTeeth

Being a parent can be a lot, getting support when you need it helps ease the load. At LoveTeeth Kids we provide a calm, relaxing environment to explore your concerns, take a look at their teeth and get to the bottom of teeth grinding. The earlier you nip it in the bud, the better, this sets them up for healthy smiles as they grow. 

Give us a call for a free consultation and put your mind at rest at your closest clinic. Kids and parents love us, come and find out why. 

Finally… 

If you have noticed your little one is grinding their teeth, rest assured you’re not alone. It actually happens a lot more than you may think. In fact, up to 30% of children experience teeth grinding at some stage. The causes vary. Common ones are mild stress, not feeling well or teething issues. 

If you are concerned, speaking to a kid’s dentist can quickly put your mind at rest. Dental assessment can help identify the cause and resolve teeth grinding, preventing future issues. 

Get in touch with the team at Love Teeth anytime for a free consultation.