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Although bruxism is usually something that is associated with adults, it can also happen to children.
According to the American Dental Association, tooth grinding and tooth clenching can happen during the day, but bruxism when your kids are asleep is most common. Although bruxism is usually outgrown by the time a child reaches the age of 13, it could lead to dental problems.
Your dentist explains physiological, psychological, allergies, jaw misalignment, and even side effects from a particular medication can cause tooth grinding, gnashing and jaw clenching. If your child has had a brain injury, he or she could also be suffering from bruxism.
As a parent, the last thing that you want to hear when your child is sleeping is grinding and clenching. Nighttime bruxism is much easier to identify than subtle daytime teeth grinding and clenching, but there are some signs that could identify bruxism.
If your child is constantly complaining about headaches or earaches, schedule an appointment with your dentist. Other signs to look for include loud clicking or grinding sounds, injuries to teeth and gums, clenching or tightening of the jaw muscles, sensitivity to cold and hot foods and complaints about sore jaw muscles, especially after your child wakes up.
Chronic tooth grinders will have excessive wear on their teeth. If the cause of the grinding is jaw misalignment, the enamel on the teeth may be worn in certain areas. Children with bruxism will also be more susceptible to gum injury and chipped teeth. In some cases, tooth grinding can lead to problems with the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ.
If your child is grinding his or her teeth, it is important that you schedule an appointment with your pediatric dentist who can monitor the effects of bruxism on your child’s teeth. The cause is usually what dictates the treatment, and if the teeth are misaligned, your dentist may alter the biting surface with dental crowns or begin occlusal treatment. If stress seems to be the problem, your pediatric dentist may suggest professional therapy, relaxation classes, or special exercises. Muscle relaxants may also be used if stress is the cause of the bruxism. Your dentist may also recommend dental appliances such as a mouthguard to prevent further damage. Bite plates and bite splints are usually successful in the prevention of bruxism.
For more information regarding bruxism schedule an appointment with your pedicatric dentist today.