Why Is My Toddler Grinding Her Teeth?
Teeth grinding — or, as dentists refer to it, bruxism — is very common among 2- and 3-year-olds, even if parents aren’t always aware that it’s happening. In fact, about one-third of kids under age 5 grind their teeth. The good news? Most outgrow the habit by the time they’re 6 years old. Here’s what you need to know if you notice your toddler grinding her teeth, including signs it’s happening, causes and underlying health conditions that may be behind the habit, and what to do about it.
What is teeth grinding in toddlers?
Bruxism is the official term, it involves grinding the teeth or clenching the jaw in a repetitive motion. Toddlers might move their jaws from side to side as a result of teething or improper tooth alignment, or they may just clamp down tightly.
It’s more common for toddlers to grind their teeth at night, when they’re sleeping. But teeth grinding can also happen during the day. Most of the time, your toddler doesn’t even know she’s grinding her teeth, much like other unconscious, repetitive toddler habits such as nail biting.
Bruxism can cause complications, so it’s important to speak to your child’s pediatrician or dentist if you spot your toddler grinding her teeth.
If your toddler is grinding her teeth constantly, she could begin to wear down her tooth enamel or hurt her jaw. Over time, this can make her teeth sensitive to cold foods or even cold air, and those pearly whites can become porous, which can lead to tooth decay.
Why is my toddler grinding her teeth?
In many cases, there’s no obvious reason why your cutie is grinding her teeth. But there are some possible explanations, including health-related causes to look out for:
- Her mouth feels different.Baby teeth start appearing during your child’s first year and continue coming in until around age 3. During this time, your child may want to explore the feeling of her new teeth. Teething is also painful, and your tot may want to scratch the achy gums with the teeth she has.
- Boredom. Your toddler may grind her teeth while strapped to her car seat without much to do. Or vice versa: Perhaps she moves her jaws back and forth because she’s super focused as she does a puzzle or listens to a story. She may even find it fun: It makes a cool sound (at least if you’re a toddler!).
- Her tooth alignment is off. Sometimes the upper and lower teeth don’t line up as they should, which can happen because of crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw misalignment.).
- She snores. Some research suggests Opens a new window a link between bruxism and children who snore, breathe more frequently through their mouths or have nightmares.
- Your child is stressed. Stress and anxiety can also cause a child to grind her teeth.