Teeth grinding in children – causes symptoms and treatment
Bruxism is the medical term for the grinding of teeth or the clenching of jaws. Many kids have it, but most outgrow it. Bruxism often happens during deep sleep phases or when kids are under stress.
Causes
While there have been many studies conducted to understand the causes of bruxism, scientists have not been able to correctly identify the cause behind this grinding of teeth, especially in children. However, some researchers speculate that it may occur due to the following reasons:
- The top and bottom teeth in children may not be aligned perfectly.
- The grinding of teeth may be in response to pain such as that in toothache or earache.
- It may also be in response to nervousness or tension.
- Anger and stress may also trigger grinding of teeth and clenching of the jaw.
- Hyperactive children are more likely to be affected by bruxism.
- Certain medications may also cause this.
- Certain allergies may cause grinding of teeth in children. Pinworms are also believed to be a trigger for this condition.
- Certain sleep disorders are linked to teeth grinding. Drooling or talking in the sleep could be a reason. Those having personality disorders such as obsessive compulsive disorder and aggressiveness have an increased likelihood of being affected by this condition.
Signs and Symptoms
Most often, this grinding of teeth occurs during the sleep, when the person is unaware of the condition. In such cases, the following bruxism symptoms may be noted.
- Soreness of the jaw
- Dull pain in the gums
- Headache
- Tenderness in the mouth
Treatment
In most cases, bruxism in children tends to go away after the child grows older. However, you could also try some soothing routines to decrease the risk of grinding his teeth during sleeping.
- Try to have a proper bedtime schedule for your kid. Avoid allowing him to stay up late at night.
- If there’s toothache or an ear infection that’s causing your child to clench his teeth, speak to your doctor about the appropriate medication to ease his discomfort.
- You could also get your kid to try some relaxing activities before bedtime to ease his stress that may be triggering this condition.
- Comfort your kid and be there for him during his initial stages of development. Stay in contact with the happenings in your kid’s life.
- Check out your child’s day to day activities and school performance. If there is any major change in his life, for eg., if you’re moving, and your kid is anxious about it, try to help him settle down and find new friends.
- Avoid letting your kid chew anything that’s not food- for example pencils or pens.
- Keep your kid away from chewing gums. Cut back on his caffeine content.
- Get your child to Practice relaxation exercises. Calm down the jaw muscles by applying warm compresses on your child’s cheek.
Some Dental Doctors may also suggest a night guard in cases where children tend to grind their teeth at night. This plastic device is to be fitted in the mouth, and can prevent clenching and grinding of teeth during sleep.
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