Toddler Teeth Grinding

Toddler teeth grinding is very common and normally stops without any intervention. According to a study carried out in 2005 38% of children grind their teeth. Grinding teeth, also known as "bruxism", usually starts as the baby teeth start to come through and stops at an average age of 6. Most teeth grinding happens at night time whilst your child sleeps.

Causes of toddler teeth grinding
There is no certain cause of teeth grinding but there are a number of different possibilities. It could be due to pain caused from teething or ear aches, tension or anxiety or malocclusion which is where the teeth aren't quite aligned correctly.

Or it could be due to your toddler exploring his new teeth!

If you grind your teeth then your child is more likely to. If your toddler drools or talks in his sleep then he is also more likely to grind his teeth.

It is possible that that pinworms can cause teeth-grinding. Pinworms live in the intestines but crawl out of the body at night to lay their eggs, usually around the anus, causing itchiness. It's worth checking whether your toddler has pinworms (check his bottom for any little eggs or small worms) and consult your medical professional. The way to treat pinworms is to use a de-worming medication.

Is toddler teeth grinding a problem?

For your toddler, it usually isn't a problem. Most children outgrow the habit and if you are worried then you should speak to your dentist. If after the age of 6 or when your child has some permanent teeth and he has not outgrown his teeth grinding habits then your dentist may suggest a plastic night guard which will protect his teeth.

Your toddler could wear down his baby teeth by grinding, but this is not usually problem as by the time his adult teeth comes through the teeth grinding has usually stopped.

However, toddler teeth grinding can cause a problem for the parents as it can be noisy and can wake you up.

How can I help him stop?
Usually your child still stop grinding his teeth as he grows a little older.

If you suspect he is anxious about something then you could try having a very relaxed bedtime routine and giving him extra cuddles for reassurance. If he is in pain due to teething or an infection you could give him the appropriate dose of painkiller medication.

If you are concerned at all then it's always worth mentioning it to your dentist on your next visit. And if your toddler hasn't started to see a dentist yet then book him in to have his toddler teeth checked when you have your's checked. It is recommended that you have 6 monthly check ups from when his teeth start coming through and even if it only takes 5 minutes he will get used to the experience.

All in all toddler teeth grinding is very common and is something your toddler is very likely to grow out of. If you are worried see your dentist for a check up and for reassurance.