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Bruxism (Teeth Grinding or Clenching)

When you look in on your sleeping child, you want to hear the sounds of sweet dreams: easy breathing and perhaps an occasional sigh. But some parents hear the harsher sounds of gnashing and grinding teeth, called bruxism, which is common in kids.

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the medical term for the grinding of teeth or the clenching of jaws, especially during deep

Causes of Bruxism

Though studies have been done, no one knows why bruxism happens. But in some cases, kids may grind because the top and bottom teeth aren't aligned properly. Others do it as a response to pain, such as an earache or Stress — usually nervous tension or anger — is another cause. For instance, your child may be worrying about a test at school or experiencing a change in routine (a new headaches or earaches. Most often, however, the condition can be more bothersome to you and others in your home because of the grinding sound.

In some extreme circumstances, nighttime grinding and clenching can wear down tooth enamel, chip teeth, increase temperature sensitivity, and cause severe facial pain and jaw problems, such as temporomandibular joint disease (TMJ). Most kids who grind, however, do not have TMJ problems unless their grinding and clenching is chronic.

Diagnosing Bruxism

Lots of kids who grind their teeth aren't even aware of it, so it's often siblings or parents who identify the problem.

Some signs to watch for:

• grinding noises when your child is sleeping
• complaints of a sore jaw or face in the morning
• dentist, who will examine the teeth for chipped enamel and unusual wear and tear, and spray air and water on the teeth to check for unusual sensitivity.

  If damage is detected, the dentist will ask your child a few questions, such as:

  • How do you feel before bed?
  • Are you worried about anything at home or school?
  • Are you angry with someone?
  • What do you do before bed?

  The exam will help the dentist determine whether the grinding is caused by anatomical (misaligned teeth) or psychological (stress) factors and come up with an effective treatment plan.

  Treating Bruxism

  Most kids outgrow bruxism, but a combination of parental observation and dental visits can help keep the problem in check until they do.

  In cases where the grinding and clenching make a child's face and jaw sore or damage the teeth, dentists may prescribe a special night guard. Molded to a child's teeth, the night guard is similar to the protective mouthpieces worn by football players. Though a mouthpiece may take some getting used to, positive results happen quickly.

  Helping Kids With Bruxism

  Whether the cause is physical or psychological, kids might be able to control bruxism by relaxing before bedtime — for example, by taking a warm bath or shower, listening to a few minutes of soothing music, or reading a book.

  For bruxism that's caused by stress, try to find out what's upsetting your child and find a way to help. For example, a kid who is worried about being away from home for a first camping trip might need reassurance that mom or dad will be nearby if anything happens.

  If the issue is more complicated, such as Lisa A. Goss, RDH, BS, and Charlie J. Inga, DDS
  Date reviewed: September 2007
  Originally reviewed by:

  Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
  
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