What Is Bruxism - Teeth Grinding

By Donna Newnham

Bruxism, night time teeth grinding, will effect three out of ten children with the highest incidences occurring in children under five. It is common for them to clench their jaw or grind their teeth, especially at night or under stress. There is no real direct cause for bruxism although teething and earache can cause your child to clench it's jaws or grind it's teeth, almost as though in relax to the pain. Your child will normally grow out of this type of bruxism when they stop teething.

Stress can be another cause, such as worry over an exam or problems at school. Problems at home with parents and siblings can also cause this reflexive grinding. There has also been a link between bruxism and children with hyperactivity.

Teeth grinding does not generally seem to hurt a child's teeth , although it can lead to morning headaches or earaches. With some cases of nighttime teeth grinding the results have been a little more harsh - chipped teeth, wearing down of tooth enamel, face pain and jaw problems and increased sensitivity to temperature.

If you think your child may be suffering from teeth grinding, first look out for the following signs:

• Fingernail biting

• Gnawing on toys, pencils or anything else hard and slightly yielding

• Chewing the inside of the cheek

• Thumb sucking

• Grinding noises whilst sleeping

• Your child complaining of a sore face or jaw in the morning

A visit to the dentist will confirm whether your child is suffering from Bruxism and they will be able to advise on what steps to take next. Many will grow out of this problem, especially with parental help and routine, but some may need further help, both physically and psychologically to alleviate the problem.

Bruxism can often be more disturbing for parents - or siblings - than for the sufferer; after all it is these that have to listen to the constant noise of teeth grinding. Teething affects all of us and some treatments may not be suitable for others. Have a look at my lens for more details on this and other problems: http://www.squidoo.com/yourchildshealth