Teeth grinding (Bruxism)
Teeth grinding is relatively common in children. It most frequently presents when your child may be sleeping but may also occur during daytime hours. The signs include gnashing and grinding of teeth or clenching of jaws. This can occur during the day but more commonly seen at night especially when a child is sleeping. Many kids may outgrow teeth grinding over time. However, it is important to have the condition regularly checked and monitored.
What are the causes and effects of teeth grinding in children?
Some of the causes of teeth grinding are thought to be due to teething, poorly aligned top and bottom teeth, toothache, anxiety and stress and some co-existing medical conditions. However, healthy, happy and well balanced children may also present with symptoms and signs of teeth grinding.
The short and long term effects of teeth grinding include:
- limitation of mouth opening
- sleep disruption
- ear aches
- temporo-mandibular joint dysfunction
- inflamed or receding gums
- tooth ache
- damage to teeth
Chronic teeth grinding causes the enamel of the affected teeth to wear down. This often results in significant damage to your child’s teeth including tooth wear (attrition), fracture and breakage. Subsequently, your child may develop sensitivity to hot and cold and/or dental decay. If damage is extensive, it can be complex and costly to repair.
The preventive treatment of choice for grinding if detected early can include placing sealants or preventive resin restorations on the affected teeth to minimise further wearing down of the enamel and prevent symptoms.
Many patients also benefit from a custom made grinding splint which is worn during sleep and physically prevents direct contact between the upper and lower teeth. Grinding splints are not only preventive but also effective in breaking the cycle of grinding in a child.
Figure showing custom made grinding splint.