Share:

Bruxism or teeth grinding is more than just a nuisance. Common in both adults and children, grinding the teeth and clenching the jaw can erode tooth enamel and cause other dental problems. By understanding bruxism and working with your family dentist, you can eliminate bruxism in your child and prevent its impact in the future. 

What Parents Should Know About Brixism

What Causes Bruxism in Children?

About two or three out of every 10 children will grind their teeth. While there is not always a clear cause for bruxism, some children may grind their teeth due to a bite misalignment. It may also be a natural response to stress or physical pain. In some cases, additional medical conditions and hyperactivity can cause bruxism. Most children will outgrow this, but it’s important to talk to a family dentist if you notice your child grinding their teeth in their sleep. Otherwise, this grinding and clenching could wear down enamel, chip teeth, cause headaches, and more. 

What Do I Do if My Child Is Grinding Their Teeth?

family dentistIf you suspect that your child is grinding their teeth frequently at night, it’s important to visit your family dentist. A dentist for children will ask your child about how they feel before they go to bed and how their teeth or jaw feel. They will also discuss any signs of bruxism with you. If your children’s dentist diagnoses bruxism, they may give your child a mouthguard to wear at night. As the mouthguard protects your child’s teeth, the dentist can also work with you to treat the cause of the bruxism. For example, the dentist may encourage you to help your child to relax further before bedtime.

 

Whether your child is grinding their teeth or is simply due for a checkup, Bert E. Bathiany IV, DMD in Florence, KY, is here to provide the care you deserve. As an experienced family dentist, Dr. Bathiany provides comprehensive and compassionate care for patients of all ages. The office is equipped to set a foundation for you child’s dental health. For more information about their services, visit their website or call (859) 525-2100 today. 

tracking