Bruxism is the medical term for clinching or grinding of the teeth. Bruxism usually occurs during sleep; however, it can occur during the day. Childhood bruxism is a problem for two to three of every 10 children, according to KidsHealth. Children with bruxism often are unaware they are clinching their teeth, even when the habit occurs during the daytime. Although most children outgrow bruxism by adolescence, the practice can indicate underlying issues or lead to medical problems.
Children and Bruxism
Children usually grind their teeth for physical reasons or out of habit, according to the Parenting website. While adults with bruxism often have subconscious anxiety, childhood bruxism usually involves a more direct cause. Feelings --- such as boredom, fatigue, frustration or sadness --- can trigger daytime teeth grinding in children.
Symptoms
Bruxism can occur in children who are starting to grow permanent teeth and in children who still have their baby teeth. You might hear the noise your child makes grinding his teeth or observe him clinching his teeth. Your child might exhibit some of the side effects of bruxism, such as earache, sore jaw, headache, dental problems or eating difficulties, according to MedlinePlus. Through observation, you might connect your child's stress or anxiety to episodes of bruxism. Your child might report sores or scrapes on the inside of his cheek.
Causes
Emotional issues, dental problems and medical conditions can cause daytime bruxism. Children might grind and clinch their teeth because of anxiety or anger. For instance, your child's daytime bruxism might be related to an upcoming exam or social problems at school. Improper alignment of the top and bottom teeth can cause bruxism, according to KidsHealth. Your child might grind or clinch his teeth during the day to alleviate the pain of teething or an earache. Medical conditions, such as hyperactivity and cerebral palsy, and medications, including some antidepressants, can cause bruxism.
Side Effects
Bruxism can cause dental problems, such as tooth sensitivity, worn tooth enamel and flattened or chipped teeth, according to the Mayo Clinic. Bruxism also causes problems with the jaw, including pain and earache due to the contractions of jaw muscles. Some doctors believe chronic bruxism can cause TMJ, of temporomandibular disorder. Your child might experience facial pain and headache because of bruxism.
Behavioral Remedies
Childhood bruxism usually stops once children lose all of their baby teeth, although some children continue the practice into adolescence. For children who grind their teeth out of boredom or because of emotions, distraction and fun activities can help stop the habit. A remedy for your child's bruxism might be to help her alleviate stress by talking with her or giving her relaxation tips. The Mayo Clinic recommends assuming a proper position for the mouth and jaw to stop bruxism. Teach your child to rest her tongue on the roof of her mouth while holding her teeth apart slightly and closing her lips.
Dental and Medical Treatment
Your child's dentist might recommend a mouth guard or other dental appliance to protect your child's teeth and prevent grinding and clinching. The dentist might determine that correction of your child's misaligned teeth is the solution. The Mayo Clinic notes doctors might change or add medications if bruxism is a side-effect of a medication your child is taking.
