Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is a common condition that usually occurs at night. It is characterised by grinding, clenching, and gnashing of teeth that can lead to damaged teeth, jaw pain or tiredness, and headaches.

While tooth grinding can happen at any time, people are more likely to experience it in their sleep. This condition is also called sleep bruxism, which, according to the Sleep Foundation, is more common in children, adolescents, and young adults than older adults.

So what can parents do to stop teeth grinding in children? Read on to find out.

Possible Causes Of Teeth Grinding In Children

The Sleep Foundation reports that studies estimate that around 6% to up to nearly 50% of children experience nighttime teeth grinding. According to the health body, certain sleep disorders like sleep talking, sleepwalking, and bedwetting are said to increase the risk of sleep bruxism in children.

Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Navata, Maxillofacial Surgeon, CARE Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad, shares that many factors can also contribute to the condition, which include:

• Emotional stress, anxiety, or frustration
• Misaligned teeth or an abnormal bite
• Discomfort from teething or earaches
• Children with hyperactivity disorders may be more prone to grinding their teeth.
• Certain medications, particularly those affecting the central nervous system,.
• A learned behaviour or habit developed over time.

Why Treating Teeth Grinding Is Important

Diagnosing and treating tooth grinding, or bruxism, is of utmost importance. This is because leaving it unchecked and untreated can lead to complications. Some of the common problems that can arise from prolonged tooth grinding include:

• Dental damage and weakened enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity, decay, and fractures.
• Pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ).
• Frequent headaches or earaches are due to the constant pressure on the muscles and joints.
• Sleep disruption
• Behavioural issues in children

To diagnose the condition in kids, parents can visit a dentist to get a dental examination. This may involve gathering information about symptoms, behaviours, and sleep patterns in children. "Sometimes, dentists may suggest a period of monitoring before recommending treatment to determine if the condition is severe or persistent," says Dr Navata, adding that in cases where sleep disorders are suspected, a sleep study might be recommended.

How To Stop Teeth Grinding In Children

Here are a few strategies to stop and prevent children from grinding their teeth, according to the expert:

• Help children manage stress through relaxation techniques, counselling, or changes in routine.
• Invest in custom-made night guards that can protect the teeth from grinding during sleep.
• Address misaligned teeth or bite issues with orthodontic treatment.
• Techniques to break the habit of grinding, such as positive reinforcement,.
• Treat any underlying conditions, like sleep apnoea or hyperactivity disorders.

In addition, parents can take these measures to support their children:

• Create a calm bedtime routine, provide emotional support, and encourage activities that help reduce stress.
• Ensure the child gets adequate, quality sleep, and create a comfortable sleep environment.
• Schedule regular dental checkups to monitor the condition and receive professional advice.
• Ensure the child uses a prescribed mouthguard, if recommended by the dentist.
• Pay attention to any signs of grinding, such as sounds during sleep or complaints of jaw pain, and report these to the dentist.
• Encourage the child to talk about any worries or discomforts they may be experiencing.

Reference Link

https://www.onlymyhealth.com/causes-of-teeth-grinding-in-children-1717132220