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When adults grind their teeth (bruxism), it’s often a sign of nerves or anxiety. But your child grinds their teeth for different reasons. Here, the children's dentists at Pedodontic Associates Inc. are explaining what happens when your child grinds their teeth.

Why do children grind their teeth? Infants often grind their teeth because the new sensation in their mouths cause them discomfort. They also don’t have molars to help keep things in line. As they grow, children will grind their teeth when they sleep. It’s an unconscious activity that also affects adults.

Grinding in young children is normal and generally not treated. Many children will outgrow this behavior by age six or seven. However, if their parents still clench or grind as adults, they are less likely to outgrow it. If this is the case, a night guard can be made when they are older - typically when they have all of their adult teeth.

If bruxism is a problem for your child, contact the dental care professionals at Pedodontic Associates Inc. Don’t forget that summer is the perfect time for your child to have a dental checkup! Call Oahu’s best children’s dentists at (808) 735-1733 to set up your child’s next appointment!

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