Many parents have heard their child grinding teeth during sleep — a habit known as bruxism. While the sound can be alarming, understanding what causes teeth grinding in children and what steps to take can give parents peace of mind and help protect their child’s smile.
Why Does Teeth Grinding Happen in Children?
Bruxism is surprisingly common among children. Estimates suggest between 20 and 30 percent of kids grind or clench their teeth at some point during childhood. The causes are not always clear, and every child is different. Common contributing factors include:
- Teething or transitioning to permanent teeth
- Jaw misalignment or irregular bite
- Stress, anxiety, or hyperactivity
- Pain from an earache or other discomfort
- Certain medications or underlying health conditions
The good news is that many children outgrow bruxism on their own without lasting damage to their teeth — particularly those who grind during the baby tooth years.
Signs Your Child May Be Grinding Their Teeth
The most obvious sign is the sound of grinding while your child sleeps. But because many children grind during deep sleep, parents may only notice secondary symptoms. Watch for:
- Complaints of a sore jaw or facial pain, especially in the morning
- Increased tooth sensitivity to hot and cold
- Unusual wear patterns visible on the teeth
- Headaches that tend to occur upon waking
If you notice any of these signs, it is worth scheduling a dental visit so a dentist can examine your child’s teeth for wear and recommend next steps.
What Can Be Done About Childhood Bruxism?
For most children, treatment is not immediately necessary — particularly in younger kids whose baby teeth will be replaced naturally. However, if grinding is frequent or causing visible damage, a dentist may recommend a custom-fitted nightguard to protect the teeth during sleep. If stress appears to be a contributing factor, a calming bedtime routine or other supportive strategies may help reduce grinding episodes.
Regular dental checkups allow us to monitor your child’s teeth over time and catch any wear or bite issues early. At Newton Smile Centre, we take the time to understand each child’s unique needs and work with families to find approaches that protect growing smiles without unnecessary intervention.
Schedule an Appointment at Newton Smile Centre
If you have questions about your child’s teeth grinding habits or would like a professional evaluation, our team is here to help. Contact Newton Smile Centre today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping your child maintain a healthy, comfortable smile.
Is teeth grinding in children something to be concerned about?
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is common in children and most outgrow it without lasting damage. However, if grinding is frequent, severe, or causing noticeable tooth wear or discomfort, a dental evaluation is a good idea. Your dentist can assess whether a nightguard or other intervention is appropriate and monitor the situation at regular checkups.
At what age do children typically stop grinding their teeth?
Most children who grind their teeth do so during the years when they are losing baby teeth and growing in their adult teeth — typically between ages 3 and 10. Many outgrow the habit naturally as their permanent teeth come in and their jaw develops. Persistent bruxism into the teen years or adulthood is worth addressing with your dentist to prevent long-term enamel wear.
Can a nightguard help a child who grinds their teeth?
Yes. A custom-fitted nightguard can protect a child’s teeth from the friction and pressure caused by grinding during sleep. While it does not stop the grinding itself, it does prevent enamel wear and potential damage that repeated grinding can cause. Your dentist can determine whether a nightguard is the right approach based on the severity of your child’s bruxism and the current state of their teeth.