Bruxism, the medical term for teeth grinding or jaw clenching, is common in infants and toddlers. Parents often become concerned when they hear the distinct, often loud scraping sound of their child’s teeth rubbing together, particularly at night. While the noise can be unsettling, this behavior is frequent in early childhood development. It is typically a temporary phase that most young children outgrow naturally.
Understanding Infant and Toddler Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Bruxism involves the involuntary movement of the jaw, resulting in the grinding or clenching of the teeth. This behavior often begins when the first primary teeth erupt, as early as six months of age, and is highly prevalent through the toddler years. Studies suggest that up to 38% of children may experience bruxism before the age of five.
The condition is categorized based on when it occurs: sleep bruxism and awake bruxism. Sleep bruxism is generally more common in young children and is classified as a sleep-related movement disorder. Awake bruxism happens during the day and is often associated with concentration or emotional states. In most cases, pediatric bruxism is not considered harmful and resolves on its own by the time the child loses their baby teeth, around age six.
Common Reasons Why Babies Grind Their Teeth
One frequent reason for infant teeth grinding is the sensory exploration of newly erupted teeth. As the first teeth break through the gums, the child experiences a new sensation and may grind them together to explore the feeling, sound, and function of their developing bite. This exploratory behavior is a natural part of oral-motor development.
Teething discomfort is a primary driver, as the pressure created by grinding can provide temporary relief to sore, irritated gums. Similar to chewing on a teething toy, the counterpressure helps to soothe the discomfort. This is often observed in the 6-to-18-month age range when the incisors and first molars are coming in.
The alignment of the jaw and teeth also plays a role in early childhood bruxism. As a young child’s teeth come into contact for the first time, or as their bite changes, they may grind in an attempt to adjust their occlusion. The jaw muscles are trying to find a comfortable and stable resting position for the upper and lower teeth.
Teeth grinding can also be an unconscious physical response to emotional shifts or environmental changes. Stress, anxiety, or overstimulation can manifest as bruxism, particularly during sleep. Changes in routine, illness, or general frustration can cause a child to grind their teeth as a coping mechanism. For some children, the action becomes a repetitive habit that continues after the initial cause has passed.
Practical Steps for Management and Intervention
Parents can implement home management techniques to help reduce the frequency of teeth grinding, especially if stress is suspected. Establishing a consistent, calming bedtime routine can help lower a child’s overall stress level before sleep. This routine might include a warm bath, reading a book, or quiet snuggle time to promote relaxation.
Offering a soft, chilled teether or a cold washcloth for the child to chew on can provide relief if the grinding is linked to teething pain. This allows the child to apply counterpressure to the gums without grinding their teeth. Gently massaging the child’s jaw and cheek muscles before bedtime may also help relax the jaw and reduce muscle tension.
Monitoring the child’s symptoms is important to determine if professional intervention is necessary. Parents should observe for signs such as jaw pain, frequent headaches, or increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods. Visible flattening, chipping, or excessive wear on the tooth surfaces are physical indicators of significant grinding force.
If these symptoms appear, consultation with a pediatric dentist is recommended to assess the potential for tooth damage or jaw joint issues. For children with baby teeth, mouth guards are rarely used because their jaws are still growing and the fit would constantly change. Instead, the dentist will likely monitor the teeth for signs of wear and may suggest ways to address the underlying cause.