Teeth Grinding in Small Children

Teeth grinding and clenching is actually quite common in children under 5. According to the American Dental Association, one in three young children grind their teeth. But the causes of teeth grinding, or Bruxism, are not really known. Some suspected reasons for small children grinding their teeth are stress, teeth not aligning properly, jaw problems, and simply a bad habit that is hard to break

There are two peak periods of teeth grinding. The first is when the baby teeth start to come in, and the second is when the permanent teeth come in, usually between 5 and 7 years of age. Bruxism is actually a way for the brain and muscles to locate the position of the teeth as the child's teeth erupt and the jaws grow, according to dentists.

The good news is that the habit usually stops in children before permanent damage to the adult teeth occurs.

It is good to have your child's teeth checked by a dentist, to rule out physical causes for the grinding. If the dentist thinks the grinding could be a problem, he or she may prescribe a mouth guard. In cases where the grinding and clenching make a child's teeth and jaw sore, or damages the teeth, dentists may prescribe a special night guard. Molded to your child's teeth, the night guard is like the protective mouthpieces worn by football players.

Because bruxism is a child's natural reaction to growth and development, most cases can't be prevented. . Stress-induced teeth grinding can be avoided, however, by talking with kids regularly and helping them deal with stress

You can watch your child for other signs of stress, if you think that might be causing the grinding. If your child seems unusually moody, clingy or shows problems sleeping and eating, try giving him or her some extra TLC. Talk with your child and find out if there is something in particular worrying them or upsetting the. Try reading, cuddling, warm baths, and singing songs before bedtime.

If things do not improve, you might want to speak to your child's pediatrician.

If bruxism is caused by stress, the habit may last until the stress is relieved, so it is best to get outside help if necessary in relieving your child's anxiety and stress.