It’s common for toddlers to grind or clench their teeth, a habit known as bruxism. Up to 38% of children grind their teeth, often as a result of tooth eruption or improper bite alignment. Thankfully, most kids outgrow bruxism by age 6. In the meantime, there are things parents can do to protect toddlers’ teeth and help prevent complications.
Why toddlers grind their teeth
There are a few theories as to why toddlers grind their teeth:
- Tooth eruption – Around age 3, when toddlers’ molars are emerging, bruxism may occur as a natural response to dental discomfort.
- Improper bite – When top and bottom teeth don’t meet properly, grinding may develop as the jaw’s attempt to adjust the bite.
- Stress or anxiety – While less common, bruxism can sometimes be a reaction to emotional distress or hyperarousal in sensitive children.
- Genetics – Bruxism tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
Most cases of toddler teeth grinding are transient and not a cause for concern. However, it’s still smart to take steps to protect little teeth and jaws.
Dental and health risks
Frequent, forceful grinding can lead to several oral health issues:
- Tooth wear – Long-term bruxism wears down tooth enamel, dentin, and cementum. This damage is permanent.
- Chipped or cracked teeth – Powerful clenching and grinding can crack teeth or cause pieces to break off.
- Pain – Jaw and facial muscles can become sore, tense, or tender from overuse.
- Headaches – Bruxism commonly causes tension headaches due to muscle strain.
- Alignment issues – Uneven grinding can shift teeth out of proper position over time.
Severe bruxism may even affect a child’s nutrition if chewing becomes difficult or painful.
When to see a dentist
Consult your pediatric dentist if your toddler’s teeth grinding:
- Occurs nightly or close to every night
- Is loud enough to wake them or others
- Causes reddened cheeks or jaw discomfort
- Persists beyond age 6
The dentist can check for dental damage, misalignment, and other issues. They may recommend a mouth guard, physical therapy, or other solutions depending on the cause and severity.
Strategies to reduce teeth grinding
While you can’t force a toddler to stop grinding their teeth, you can take steps to minimize it:
Monitor diet
Avoid or limit:
- Sugary foods and drinks – These increase hyperactivity and teeth grinding in some kids.
- Caffeine – Found in soda, tea, chocolate, etc. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system.
- Citrus fruits – High acidity can cause tooth sensitivity and discomfort.
Provide plenty of crunchy fruits and vegetables at mealtimes – the chewing action massage the gums.
Establish a calming bedtime routine
A consistent, relaxing routine signals the brain and body to wind down for sleep. Try to:
- Give a warm bath 1-2 hours before bed.
- Brush teeth calmly; even let your toddler “brush” your teeth.
- Read books with low lighting and soothing voices.
- Play soft music and cuddle for a few minutes before lights out.
Limit screen time before bed
Exciting or stimulating TV shows, movies, video games, and electronic devices interfere with quality sleep. Turn screens off 1-2 hours before bedtime.
Make sure the sleep environment is optimal
- Cool, quiet, and dark room
- Comfortable mattress and pillows
- Warm, cozy bedding
- Night light and white noise if needed
- Lovey or stuffed animal for comfort
Try to identify and alleviate stressors
For kids prone to grinding due to anxiety, determine any sources of emotional distress. Common triggers include:
- New sibling
- Parent separation or divorce
- Change in childcare or school
- Death of loved one
- Family move
Provide extra affection and reassurance around difficult transitions. Maintain routines and talk through changes step-by-step.
Ask your dentist about a mouth guard
Custom nighttime mouth guards cushion teeth from forceful grinding. They don’t address the cause but can limit dental damage.
When bruxism is unlikely to resolve on its own
Consult your pediatrician or dentist right away if your child’s bruxism:
- Starts suddenly after age 5
- Worsens steadily over several weeks
- Occurs multiple times a night, every night
- Causes severe pain or headaches
- Is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (trouble chewing, loose teeth, etc.)
Persistent, severe bruxism may require intervention beyond basic home care. The doctor may prescribe medication, refer to a specialist, or order imaging to check for underlying issues.
When to consider other treatments
Discuss additional therapies with your pediatric dentist if your child’s bruxism:
- Damages teeth enamel despite decreased frequency/intensity
- Persists daily beyond age 6
- Stems from dental misalignment or obstruction
- Is linked to reflux, allergies, or other medical conditions
Options may include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Physical therapy
- Medication
- Mouth splint or orthodontic appliances
- Dental repair (bonding, crowns)
When to see an occupational therapist
Some children grind due to underlying sensory issues. See an occupational therapist if your toddler also displays symptoms like:
- Excessive drooling
- Difficulty manipulating small objects
- Aversion to certain textures
- Unusually high/low sensitivity to pain or temperature
- Frequent mouthing behaviors beyond age 2-3
Occupational therapy helps with sensory processing and self-regulation. Exercises may improve body awareness and muscle control.
Conclusion
While startling, toddler teeth grinding is typically harmless and temporary. Stay positive – chances are excellent the behavior will resolve on its own. In the meantime, comfort your child and take simple steps to protect their oral health. Seek professional advice if bruxism is severe, persists day and night, or causes worrisome symptoms. With patience and care, your toddler’s teeth will soon be grind-free!
| Age | Typical bruxism causes | Interventions |
|---|---|---|
| Under 2 | Tooth eruption | Teething rings, cold washcloth |
| 3-6 years | Tooth eruption, bite misalignment | Diet changes, bedtime routine, mouth guard |
| Over 6 years | Stress, dental/medical issues | Therapy, dental treatment, medication |
This table provides an overview of common bruxism causes and management approaches for different toddler and child age ranges.