One in three people grinds their teeth, which includes an estimated three out of 10 children. Habitual grinding is known as bruxism and can occur for various reasons, including stress, anxiety, teething, or misaligned teeth. Occasional grinding is mostly harmless, but it can damage teeth, cause headaches, and strain jaw muscles when it occurs regularly. If you notice your children grinding their teeth at night, contact a pediatric dentist to discuss these possible solutions.

How to Treat Bruxism in Children

1. Determine the Cause

While the reason why children grind their teeth isn’t always apparent, a pediatric dentist can examine your child to determine the most likely cause. Children younger than six often grind their teeth because of discomfort from their baby teeth growing in or out. Misaligned jaws can also contribute to the condition. It’s important to rule out common dental factors before assuming stress is the only cause.

2. Get Fitted for a Mouthguard

Some children will habitually grind their teeth, which can lead to infection or damage, so their pediatric dentist might recommend a mouthguard. A mouthguard is made from a mold of your child’s teeth and specially fitted for comfort. It’s worn at night to prevent top and bottom teeth from grinding against each other while a child sleeps. 

3. Use Relaxation Techniques

If stress and anxiety are the suspected culprits, seek ways to help your child relax before bedtime. Ask if anything is bothering your child. They might be worried about a school assignment, bullies, or family issues. Offer them reassurance and support, and help them find a nighttime ritual that calms them.

Turn off all screens, and spend at least 20 minutes talking or reading with your child before bedtime. Breathing exercises can also relax muscles and promote a feeling of calm. Practice inhaling and exhaling deeply with them before saying goodnight.

The pediatric dentists at Pedodontic Associates are here to help children on Oahu and Maui with bruxism. Their highly-accredited dentists have cared for infants, young children, and adolescents for more than 25 years and specialize in preventative and emergency dental care at all three locations. To make an appointment, call the Pearlridge office at (808) 487-7933, the Kahala office at (808) 735-1733, or the Kahului office at (808) 877-0066. Learn more about their dental services on their website.