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For many parents, teeth grinding isn’t discovered in the middle of the night. A parent may pick it up through the baby monitor, during the quick bedtime check, or after one too many rough mornings. That unfamiliar grinding sound (think tiny shoes scuffing a sidewalk) can be surprising, and a little unsettling.
Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is common in babies, toddlers, and children. It can happen during sleep or while kids are awake, and it often shows up during periods of growth or change.
The good news is that many children grow out of it. Still, understanding what’s normal, what to watch for, and when a dental visit can help makes all the difference.
What Is Bruxism in Children?
Bruxism is the medical term for grinding or clenching the teeth. Children experience it in two main ways:
- Awake bruxism: Your child may clench their jaw when concentrating, feeling nervous, or navigating big emotions. Homework time, video games, or stressful moments can all trigger it.
- Sleep bruxism: Your child may grind their teeth at night, often without realizing it until a parent hears the sound.
Bruxism can appear at different stages of childhood:
- Infants: Grinding may show up as new teeth emerge. Some parents hear it during sleep as babies explore new sensations in their mouths.
- Toddlers and preschoolers: Teething, growth spurts, and changing routines can all play a role in nighttime grinding.
- School-aged children: Busy brains, shifting teeth, and sleep disruptions can make grinding at night more common than parents expect.
What Causes Children to Grind Their Teeth?
Children don’t grind their teeth for just one reason. Sometimes it’s a short-lived phase, like teething or dental development. Other times, it’s the body’s response to stress, a bite issue, or a sleep-related concern.
Below are some of the most common reasons children grind their teeth, along with a few medical factors your dentist may want to keep on the radar.
Common Triggers
Teething (in babies and toddlers)
As new teeth push through the gums, babies may clench or grind as they experiment with the sensation. A safe teething toy can sometimes help redirect that urge.
Misaligned teeth or bite issues
If teeth don’t fit together comfortably, some children grind as their jaw searches for a more natural resting position.
Growth of permanent teeth
During the mixed dentition stage, when baby teeth and adult teeth overlap, the bite can change quickly. Temporary grinding is not unusual during this phase.
Stress and anxiety (changes at school or home)
Big feelings don’t always come out as words. For some children, stress shows up at night as teeth grinding, especially during transitions like a new school year, family changes, or disrupted routines.
Medical and Developmental Factors
Sleep disorders (including sleep apnea)
Some children who grind their teeth also experience sleep-related issues. Snoring, gasping, mouth breathing, or persistent daytime tiredness are important clues to share with both your dentist and pediatrician.
ADHD and other neurological conditions
Families often ask whether bruxism is linked to ADHD. Research shows an association between ADHD symptoms and sleep bruxism, though one does not directly cause the other. In these cases, dental care often works best alongside medical guidance.
Nutritional deficiencies (such as magnesium)
Parents may wonder if a deficiency causes teeth grinding in kids. While no single vitamin is a guaranteed fix, balanced nutrition and hydration support muscle relaxation and healthier sleep overall.
Genetics or family history
If teeth grinding runs in the family, your child may be more likely to experience it as well.
Signs Your Child Might Be Grinding Their Teeth
Not sure if grinding is happening? These are some common signs parents notice:
- Audible grinding at night
- Complaints of jaw pain or facial soreness
- Worn or flattened tooth surfaces
- Morning headaches or earaches
- Restless sleep or frequent waking
If any of these sound familiar, mention them at your child’s next dental visit. Even mild grinding is worth monitoring so small issues don’t turn into bigger ones.
Is Teeth Grinding Harmful for Children?
Sometimes, bruxism is simply part of growing up, especially with baby teeth. Those teeth are temporary, and mild grinding may not cause lasting harm.
Grinding becomes more concerning when it’s frequent, intense, or ongoing. Potential risks include:
- Chipped or worn teeth
- Enamel erosion
- Tooth sensitivity
- Jaw tension or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues
- Poor sleep quality for both children and parents
A helpful rule of thumb: if grinding is occasional and painless, your dentist may recommend watching and waiting. If it’s loud, daily, painful, or causing damage, it’s time to take action.
How to Treat Bruxism in Children
Treatment for teeth grinding depends on the cause and how much wear is present. Many families begin with simple at-home steps and add professional support if needed.
At-Home Approaches
Reducing stress and anxiety
A calm bedtime routine can help a busy mind settle. Consider a warm bath, story time, dim lights, and gentle conversations about the day.
Teething toys for babies
Safe, pediatrician-approved teething toys can ease discomfort and reduce grinding related to teething.
Soft foods during flare-ups
If your child’s jaw feels sore, temporarily choosing softer foods like yogurt, soups, or scrambled eggs can reduce strain.
When to See a Dentist
It’s a good idea to schedule a dental visit if you notice:
- Persistent or worsening grinding
- Visible tooth wear or damage
- Gum irritation or sensitivity
- Sleep disruption caused by grinding
Pain, damage, and poor sleep are the biggest signals that professional support can help.
Professional Treatment Options
Custom night guards for older children
For some older children and teens, a custom night guard can protect teeth from wear. These are not recommended for infants or toddlers and should always be professionally fitted.
Dental correction
If bite alignment is contributing to grinding, your dentist may recommend treatments that guide healthy jaw development.
Behavioral or stress support
When emotional stress plays a major role, counseling or behavioral strategies can help children process big feelings more comfortably, day and night.
Will My Child Outgrow Teeth Grinding?
In many cases, yes. Bruxism is often a normal developmental stage, especially in early childhood.
That said, ongoing monitoring is important:
- Grinding during baby-tooth years often fades on its own.
- Grinding that continues as permanent teeth erupt deserves closer attention.
- Regular dental visits allow us to track changes and protect developing smiles.
Many children do outgrow bruxism, but we don’t rely on hope alone when teeth are involved.
When to Worry About Bruxism in Kids
Grinding deserves closer attention if it’s paired with:
- Pain, headaches, or dental damage
- Signs of sleep disturbance, like snoring or fatigue
- Persistence beyond early childhood
Sometimes bruxism is a symptom of an underlying issue, such as stress or a sleep disorder. A dental exam can help identify what’s most likely for your child.
Tips to Help Prevent Teeth Grinding
While you can’t always stop grinding immediately, these steps can make a meaningful difference over time:
- Create a cozy, predictable bedtime routine
- Limit screens and stimulating activities before bed
- Maintain regular dental visits
- Support balanced nutrition and hydration
- Address stress with reassurance and open conversation
Small, consistent changes often have the biggest impact.
Helping Your Child Rest Easier, One Smile at a Time
Teeth grinding in children can feel unsettling, especially when it echoes through a quiet house at night. The good news is that with early awareness and the right support, most families can manage bruxism gently and effectively.
If you’ve noticed signs of grinding or clenching, our care team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your nearest location, and we’ll work together to protect your child’s smile so everyone can sleep a little more peacefully.