What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the medical term for grinding the teeth or clenching the jaw. Many kids have it, but most outgrow it without lasting problems.
What Causes Bruxism?
Kids might grind their teeth for a few reasons, including:
- teeth that aren’t aligned properly
- pain, such as from an earache orteething
- stress; for instance, from worry about a test or a change in routine. Even arguing with parents and siblings can cause enough stress to prompt teeth grinding or jaw clenching.
- medical reasons, like hyperactivity, cerebral palsy, or some types of medicines
What Problems Can Happen?
Many times bruxism (BRUKS-iz-em) isn’t noticed and doesn’t cause problems. Often, it's more bothersome to other family members because of the grinding sound.
But sometimes it can cause:
- headaches
- worn down tooth enamel or chipped teeth
- sensitive teeth
- face, ear, or jaw pain
How Is Bruxism Diagnosed?
Many kids who grind their teeth don’t know they do. Often, siblings or parents are the ones who notice the problem.
Some signs to watch for:
- grinding noises when your child is sleeping
- complaints of a sore jaw or face after waking up in the morning
- pain with chewing
If you think your child grinds their teeth, visit the dentist, who will check the teeth for chipped enamel and unusual wear and tear, and spray air and water on them to check for sensitivity.
If the teeth are damaged, the dentist may ask a few questions to look what’s causing the grinding, such as misaligned teeth or stress.
How Is Bruxism Treated?
If teeth-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 mouthpieces athletes wear to protect their teeth. A night guard can take some getting used to, but it usually helps quickly.
How Can Parents Help?
Whatever the cause of bruxism, help kids relax before bedtime — they might take a warm bath or shower, listen to a few minutes of soothing music, or read a book.
For bruxism from stress, ask about what's upsetting your child and find a way to help. For example, a kid who worries about being away from home for a first camping trip might need reassurance that mom or dad will be nearby if needed.
If the issue is more complicated, such as moving to a new town, talk to your child about it and try to ease any fears. If you're concerned, talk to your doctor.
In rare cases, basic stress relievers aren't enough to stop bruxism. If your child can’t sleep or acts differently than usual, work with your dentist or doctor to find the cause of the stress and make a plan to help.
Most kids outgrow bruxism when they lose their baby teeth. In the meantime, routine dental visits can help find and treat bruxism.
FAQs
If you're concerned, talk to your doctor. In rare cases, basic stress relievers aren't enough to stop bruxism. If your child can't sleep or acts differently than usual, work with your dentist or doctor to find the cause of the stress and make a plan to help. Most kids outgrow bruxism when they lose their baby teeth.
Is bruxism teeth grinding or clenching? ›
Clenching or grinding of the teeth (bruxism) is a common activity that can occur both during the day and at night. Some prefer to split these concepts into separate behaviors while others group them together. Grinding or bruxism involves moving the jaw with the teeth held together.
How do you permanently stop bruxism? ›
You can't always stop yourself from teeth grinding or clenching, especially if you brux during sleep. But there are steps you can take to reduce your overall risk: Practice mindfulness to reduce daily stress. Get regular dental checkups.
How do you treat bruxism in children? ›
Bruxism treatment
Some children who don't have symptoms may not need treatment. Some treatment options are designed to reduce grinding and clenching. Your doctor may begin by having you or your child wear a mouth guard at night. The mouth guard is specially made to fit your teeth.
How to reduce bruxism naturally? ›
Listening to music, taking a warm bath or exercising can help you relax and may reduce your risk of developing bruxism. Avoid stimulating substances in the evening. Don't drink caffeinated coffee or caffeinated tea after dinner and avoid alcohol during the evening, as they may worsen bruxism.
How do I know if I clench or grind my teeth? ›
If you suspect you are suffering from bruxism, there are several signs to look out for: Tight or sore jaw muscles. Flattened teeth. Cracked, chipped, or loose teeth.
Can bruxism be cured? ›
In most cases, bruxism can be successfully treated. Treatment may involve: Behavior changes. You may be taught how to rest your tongue, teeth, and lips properly.
What is the root cause of bruxism? ›
Doctors don't completely understand what causes bruxism, but it may be due to a combination of physical, psychological and genetic factors. Awake bruxism may be due to emotions such as anxiety, stress, anger, frustration or tension. Or it may be a coping strategy or a habit during deep concentration.
How to relax your jaw at night? ›
Train yourself not to clench or grind your teeth. If you notice that you clench or grind during the day, position the tip of your tongue between your teeth. This practice trains your jaw muscles to relax. Relax your jaw muscles at night by holding a warm washcloth against your cheek in front of your earlobe.
Does drinking water help bruxism? ›
Drink More Water
Drinking water can refresh your body and remind your jaw to relax and open. Bruxism does not have to be a chronic problem.
How Can Parents Help? Whatever the cause of bruxism, help kids relax before bedtime — they might take a warm bath or shower, listen to a few minutes of soothing music, or read a book. For bruxism from stress, ask about what's upsetting your child and find a way to help.
Is bruxism ADHD? ›
Teeth grinding has been associated with ADHD. Teeth grinding happens involuntarily and can be experienced alongside problems such as stress, anxiety and hyperactivity.
What age do kids outgrow bruxism? ›
Teeth grinding is more common in children than you think. An estimated 3 out of 10 kids grind their teeth before reaching age 5. It's usually no cause for alarm, and most children outgrow it by the time they reach age 6.
What vitamin stops teeth grinding? ›
B-complex vitamins – Supplementing with B complex vitamins has shown a significant effect on many psychological processes, with vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid having the greatest ability to control teeth grinding.
How do I stop my son grinding his teeth in his sleep? ›
Working on relaxing the face muscles during the day can sometimes reduce nighttime bruxism. To soothe painful jaws and teeth, use a cold or hot compress, encourage your child to drink water and avoid hard foods and chewing gum. Ask your doctor about stretching exercises and facial massage techniques.
Why do I clench my jaw but not grind my teeth? ›
One of the primary causes of jaw clenching is stress and anxiety. Increased stress levels can lead to the activation of facial muscles and muscle tension in the jaw. Additionally, misaligned or crooked teeth can also contribute to jaw clenching, as the jaw may try to find a more comfortable alignment during sleep.
What can be mistaken for bruxism? ›
Patients often confuse TMJ and bruxism, or teeth grinding, with each other.
Is sleep-related bruxism tooth grinding? ›
Sleep-related bruxism involves activation of the masticatory muscles, resulting in tooth clenching and grinding during sleep. The prevalence of bruxism during sleep peaks in childhood and progressively declines with age.
