Does your child grind their teeth at night? They’re not the only ones—this common habit, called bruxism, affects many kids, an estimated 13% to 49%. It often happens during sleep, and while it might seem harmless at first, it can lead to jaw pain, worn-down teeth, or even trouble sleeping. If you’ve noticed strange sounds at night or your child has been complaining of a sore mouth or headaches in the morning, it might be time to take a closer look at what’s going on.

Causes of Bruxism in Kids

Many adults suffer from bruxism, and when this clenching and grinding occurs, it’s often tied to stress or certain medical conditions. But what about kids?

Believe it or not, children can feel stress too—even if it doesn’t always show up the same way it does in adults. A big test at school, a fight with a friend, changes in routine, or even the arrival of a new sibling can all create feelings of worry and stress. For some kids, that stress comes out physically—like grinding their teeth during sleep.

But stress isn’t the only possible cause of bruxism in kids. Here are a few other reasons this habit might show up:

• Stress or anxiety: Emotional tension, even if it seems minor, can lead to nighttime grinding.
• Misaligned teeth or bite issues: When the upper and lower teeth don’t fit together quite right, it can cause clenching or grinding.
• Medical conditions or medications: Some health issues or certain medications, especially those that affect the nervous system, may increase the chances of bruxism.
• Growing pains: As kids lose baby teeth and new ones come in, their bite is constantly changing, which might trigger grinding.
• Sleep habits: Kids who don’t get enough rest or who have interrupted sleep may be more likely to grind their teeth.

Effects of Untreated Bruxism

Unfortunately, teeth clenching and grinding can have some serious short- and long-term ramifications. While the habit might seem minor at first, over time it can lead to discomfort, dental issues, and even changes in your child’s sleep. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to any signs and talk to your dental team if you’re concerned.

Here are a few common effects of untreated bruxism:

• Tooth wear and damage: Grinding can wear down the tooth surface or even lead to chips and cracks.
• Jaw pain or headaches: Constant pressure from clenching can cause sore muscles, tension, or pain in the jaw and face.
• Sleep disturbances: Bruxism may interrupt your child’s sleep—or yours—due to noise or discomfort.
• Increased tooth sensitivity: Worn enamel can make teeth more sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks.
• Changes in bite: Long-term grinding can affect how the upper and lower teeth come together.
• TMJ problems: In some cases, grinding can lead to trouble with the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint), causing pain or clicking.

Treatment Options for Bruxism

No parent wants their child to suffer. And the last thing we want is for our kids to face long-term effects that could have been addressed early on. If you think your child may be grinding their teeth, it’s a good idea to connect with Dr. Mo and the team at Must Love Kids Pediatric Dentistry. When it comes to things to know about bruxism, one of the most important is that early treatment can help prevent bigger problems later.

Treatment will depend on the cause, but here are some common options:

• Custom-made nightguards to protect teeth: These soft, child-friendly guards are worn at night and help prevent damage from grinding.
• Stress management techniques for children: Simple tools like journaling, calming activities, or talking to a counselor can help your child manage worries.
• Orthodontic solutions for alignment issues: If your child’s bite is off, orthodontic treatment may reduce grinding over time.
• Regular dental checkups: Staying on top of appointments with your pediatric dentistry team allows any changes to be caught early.
• Healthy sleep habits: A relaxing bedtime routine and consistent sleep schedule can sometimes cut down on nighttime grinding.

When to See a Pediatric Dentist

While parents can help their children with stress management, a pediatric dentist can help with several of the solutions we mentioned above. If your child is showing signs of persistent grinding, jaw pain, or visible tooth damage, it’s time to reach out to Dr. Mo at Must Love Kids Pediatric Dentistry.

Regular checkups are an important part of catching habits like bruxism early—before they cause bigger problems. Seeing your child’s dentist every six months for a professional dental cleaning not only keeps their teeth clean, but also gives us a chance to check for signs of wear, bite issues, or anything else that might need a little help.

Early support can make a big difference, and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Bruxism Support Starts at Must Love Kids Pediatric Dentistry 

Bruxism can be frustrating, but with the right care, it’s something that can be managed. Most kids respond well to simple changes and support from their dental team. If you’re noticing signs of teeth grinding, don’t wait—schedule a consultation with Dr. Mo for guidance that’s tailored to your child. At Must Love Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to help your child feel comfortable, stay healthy, and keep their smile on the right track.