Bruxism, colloquially known as teeth grinding, is a condition that often affects children. Since the symptoms can be minor—pain upon waking, and worn teeth—it may be difficult to diagnose without the help of a dentist. Here are some tips to help your child if they’re suffering from bruxism.

Your Guide to Helping Your Child With Bruxism

1. Determine the Cause

Bruxism can be caused by both psychological and physical conditions, and determining the cause will help your dentist recommend an effective treatment plan. Stress and anxiety can cause teeth grinding during sleep, so speak with your child about recent changes or stresses in their life. Some other causes include malocclusion and sleep apnea.

2. Create a Soothing Bedtime Ritual

Calming your child’s muscles and giving them the opportunity to relax before bed can help with bruxism. Create a soothing bedtime ritual. Have your child take lavender baths, drink calming herbal teas like chamomile, practice meditation, or listen to soothing music. Additionally, encouraging your child to exercise during the day will also help relieve tension.

3. Speak to Your Dentist 

If a dental or medical issue, such as an overbite or sleep apnea, is contributing to your child’s bruxism, you’ll need your dentist to intervene. They will likely recommend a night guard. The night guards used to treat the condition are similar to the mouthpieces used by athletes during games. 

Is your child suffering from bruxism? At Valley Family Dentistry, located in Fulton County, NY, each dentist on our team has treated a variety of pediatric bruxism cases. From dental cleanings to treating teeth grinding issues, we’ve been passionate about providing dental care to our patients for over 28 years. We are always updating our methods, technology, and approaches to give you the best dental care possible. You and your child will leave our office feeling confident about your smiles. Visit us online to learn more about our team, or call (518) 661-6405 to schedule an appointment.