It can be alarming to hear your child grinding their teeth while they sleep. The squeaking or scraping sounds might seem harmless, but over time, this habit—known as bruxism—can affect your child’s teeth, jaw, and overall comfort. Fortunately, with help from an experienced Pediatric Dentist in Harbor City, CA, it’s a manageable condition that can often be corrected with gentle care and preventive guidance.
At Seahorse Kids Dental, we help parents understand what causes teeth grinding in children, when it’s a concern, and how to protect those growing smiles from long-term wear.
What Causes Teeth Grinding in Children?
Bruxism is surprisingly common in children, especially during sleep. Many kids grind their teeth without realizing it. Causes can include:
- Stress or anxiety: Emotional tension—even from school, social changes, or sports—can trigger grinding during rest.
- New teeth coming in: Discomfort from erupting baby or permanent teeth may cause temporary grinding as children adjust.
- Bite misalignment: If upper and lower teeth don’t line up properly, the jaw may shift unconsciously during sleep.
- Medical or sleep-related issues: Conditions like sleep apnea or hyperactivity can also contribute to bruxism.
While many children outgrow teeth grinding, it’s important to have a Pediatric Dentist monitor the situation to ensure it’s not damaging enamel or causing jaw discomfort.
Signs Your Child May Be Grinding Their Teeth
Since grinding often happens at night, parents may not notice it right away. Look for these common indicators:
- Complaints of jaw or facial pain in the morning
- Flat or worn-down edges on teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Interrupted sleep or restlessness
- Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
- Siblings mentioning nighttime grinding noises
If you recognize one or more of these signs, schedule a visit with Seahorse Kids Dental. Early evaluation can prevent unnecessary pain and long-term wear on your child’s teeth.
How a Pediatric Dentist Can Help
At Seahorse Kids Dental, Dr. Grant carefully examines your child’s bite, tooth surfaces, and jaw movement to determine the cause and severity of the grinding. Depending on the findings, treatment may include:
- Observation: Many children naturally outgrow bruxism as their bite and stress levels change.
- Custom night guards: A small, comfortable mouthguard can prevent teeth from rubbing together and protect enamel.
- Stress management techniques: Relaxation routines before bed—like reading or deep breathing—can reduce nighttime tension.
- Bite adjustments: If misalignment is contributing to the issue, Dr. Grant may recommend orthodontic evaluation in the future.
Our team prioritizes minimally invasive, child-friendly care, helping kids feel comfortable and confident during every visit.
Can Teeth Grinding Cause Long-Term Problems?
If left untreated, chronic grinding can lead to several dental concerns, including:
- Enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity
- Small chips or fractures in teeth
- Jaw soreness or headaches
- Changes in bite alignment over time
Fortunately, early intervention from a Pediatric Dentist can stop these problems before they start. Regular checkups at Seahorse Kids Dental allow us to track progress, adjust treatment if needed, and keep your child’s smile healthy.
Helping Kids Break the Habit
Most children don’t even realize they’re grinding their teeth, so scolding or reminding them rarely helps. Instead, focus on relaxation and reassurance. Maintain a consistent bedtime routine, limit screen time before bed, and avoid caffeine or sugar in the evenings. If your child plays sports, make sure they have a well-fitting mouthguard to prevent additional pressure on the jaw.
Gentle Solutions for Growing Smiles
Bruxism doesn’t have to disrupt your child’s rest or harm their teeth. With early attention and the right care, your child can sleep soundly and wake up smiling pain-free. If you suspect teeth grinding or jaw discomfort, schedule an appointment with Seahorse Kids Dental today by calling (310) 596-1111. Our friendly Pediatric Dentist in Harbor City, CA is here to help protect your child’s teeth and restore peace to bedtime—for both of you.
