Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is common in children — estimates suggest up to 30% of children grind their teeth at some point. While alarming to hear, most childhood bruxism resolves without intervention as children grow. Understanding when it's normal and when it requires attention helps parents navigate this concern confidently.
What Does Childhood Bruxism Look Like?
The most common form is nocturnal bruxism — grinding during sleep. Parents typically notice a loud grinding sound at night. The child may wake with jaw soreness or headaches. Daytime grinding, though less common, can also occur under stress or concentration.
Why Children Grind Their Teeth
In younger children (2–6 years), bruxism often accompanies teething and the eruption of new teeth. In older children, stress, anxiety, airway problems, and misaligned teeth are common contributors. Children with ADHD, cerebral palsy, or who take certain medications have higher rates of bruxism.
When to See a Professional
Most childhood bruxism does not cause long-term damage and resolves by adolescence. However, a dental evaluation is recommended if the child complains of jaw pain, headaches, or tooth soreness; if visible tooth wear (flattened or worn teeth) is noted; if sleep is significantly disrupted; or if the grinding is associated with other behavioral or health concerns.
Management Approaches
For mild cases, watchful waiting is appropriate. Stress reduction techniques, addressing sleep hygiene, and identifying anxiety triggers can help. For children with significant wear, a custom night guard protects the teeth during sleep. Treatment of underlying sleep-disordered breathing (such as mouth breathing or sleep apnea) often reduces bruxism in children for whom this is a contributing factor.