Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding, is quite prevalent among children. While it can happen at any time, most children tend to grind their teeth during sleep, particularly in the deeper phases of their sleep cycle. Your child might grind their teeth for various reasons, including stress, misaligned teeth, pain response, hyperactivity or as a reaction to certain medications or medical conditions.
Often, bruxism goes unnoticed and does not cause any harm. However, in some instances, a child’s bruxism can lead to headaches, earaches, increased sensitivity to temperature, facial and jaw pain or chipped and worn teeth. Although most children will outgrow bruxism, it is important to monitor the condition to ensure their teeth and smile remain healthy. You can do this by bringing your child to our office for regular checkups every six months and by being vigilant for signs of bruxism at home, such as:
- Grinding noises while your child is asleep
- Pain when your child is chewing
- Complaints of a sore jaw or face upon waking
Our dentist can conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause of bruxism and suggest appropriate treatments and strategies to prevent further damage. The most common treatment we may recommend is a night guard, a custom oral appliance worn at night to prevent the teeth from touching and getting damaged by grinding and clenching. Additionally, we may suggest strategies to help your child relax before bedtime and address any underlying stress or anxiety.
If you notice any signs of bruxism in your child, or have concerns about their dental health, please contact our office to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to provide the care and guidance needed to keep your child’s smile healthy and bright. Reach out to State Street Dental at 208-939-1700 today to schedule their appointment with Dr. Gregory Davis and learn more about pediatric bruxism in Boise, Idaho!