Your little teeth grinder.

Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding is common in children age 5 to 10. In fact, experts predict that over 30 percent of all children go through a phase of night bruxism, or grinding of the teeth in their sleep. While bruxism is generally harmless and passes in time, there can be complications to consider if your little one begins to grind his or her teeth at night.

Bruxism may lead to dental problems if unchecked. Some common symptoms of night teeth grinding include: worn down or flattened teeth, worn enamel, increased tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, morning headaches, sore and chewed tissue on the inside of the child’s check, or an earache associated with the gnawing.
Growth and development is to
blame. Often, parents worry that the cause of their child’s bruxism is due to stress. Although that can be the case, more often than not it is simply related to growth and development. For instance, top and bottom baby teeth may not fit perfectly and cause grinding.

Talk to Dr. Bill about your little teeth grinder. He’ll be able to look at the child’s teeth and determine if it will simply pass or if your little one will require a nighttime dental guard to protect his or her teeth. Just remember, the sooner you tell Dr. Bill, the sooner you can help your child avoid any unnecessary symptoms of teeth grinding. Call 541-672-5535 and make an appointment today.