Should I Be Worried About My Child’s Teeth Grinding?

Here at brush-baby we know how important it is for parents to keep their little ones’ teeth and gums healthy, which is why we offer a comprehensive range of dental products, from kids toothbrushes and baby teethers to baby gum wipes and kids toothpaste.

In this blog post, we shed light on a topic that concerns many parents: teeth grinding in children.

Brush Baby Explains: What Is Teeth Grinding?

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is when a child clenches or grinds their teeth, often during sleep.

It is actually quite common, about one-third of kids do it, particularly between ages 3-6. It is usually harmless and something kids typically outgrow. It can cause some discomfort or mild tooth wear, though. Some common causes include:

Misaligned teeth
Stress or anxiety
Teething in younger children
Ear infections or other medical issues

Can Teeth Grinding Be Prevented?

Completely preventing teeth grinding isn’t easy - especially during sleep. But don't worry! There are some simple steps that parents can take to reduce the risk and make things easier to manage.

For younger children, bruxism might simply be a temporary phase tied to them teething or jaw development. Using baby gum wipes or a gentle baby brush during this stage can help comfort your little one’s gums and encourage positive oral hygiene habits.

For older children, reducing stress levels and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can make a real difference.

How Can We Stop Teeth Grinding?

While you may not be able to stop teeth grinding immediately, consistent care and proactive habits can help to minimise its impact on your child’s oral health. Here are some key steps to take:

Encourage Proper Dental Hygiene:

Using a soft-bristled children’s toothbrush combined with specially formulated kids toothpaste can help to lessen discomfort and protect against enamel wear caused by grinding.

Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups:

Dentists are your best partners in managing bruxism. They can check your little one’s teeth for signs of tooth damage and recommend interventions, like a nightguard if necessary.

Support Healthy Gum Care:

For babies and toddlers, using soothing baby gum wipes clears away bacteria and helps to make sure that those tiny teeth and gums are cared for even before brushing begins.

Promote Comfort During Teething:

Offering teething-friendly tools, such as a baby teether, can help to get rid of any discomfort and soothe jaw tension.

Build Stress-Free Bedtime Habits:

Relaxation techniques can ease anxiety, which may reduce grinding.

Creating Positive Oral Health Habits for Life

Teeth grinding can occasionally be a part of child development, but it’s also a great reminder of why dental health is so important from the get-go.

At Brush Baby, we’re here to help you on this journey. Explore our online store for a wide range of children’s dental care products, from babys first toothbrush and tee thers to kids electric toothbrushes, we have everything you need to keep your little one’s smile sparkling!