Child Grinding Teeth

For the past few months we've had trouble with my daughter sleeping through the night. This weekend we let her sleep with us after she woke up during the night ( I know it's bad, but we all were so tired). I was awakened by a horrible sound and realized it was my daughter grinding her teeth. It sounds so horrible, that I was scared she was breaking her little teeth. Should I be worried about this now, with her still being so young? Is this something that I need to take care of now??

While it sounds awful, teeth grinding rarely causes problems for children. Teeth grinding, medically bruxism, is often caused by stress or teeth alignment issues. In children, bruxism typically resolves on it own.

A pediatric dentist may need to become involved in severe cases where tooth structure is being removed. In these rare incidences they can apply a composite resin to damaged teeth or may recommend a mouth guard.

Next time she is at the dentist ask about her grinding.

Written July 2011 by
Dr. Gordon, Orlando Pediatrician