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‍Have you noticed your child clenching their jaw or grinding their teeth at night? It might sound like a little thing, but it can lead to bigger issues like jaw pain, worn-down teeth, or even headaches over time. A San Pedro family dentist can tell you that this habit, also known as bruxism, is actually more common than most parents realize.  

The question is, why? You’re about to find out as we break down the possible reasons why your child might be grinding their teeth and what you can do about it.

Why Do Kids Grind Their Teeth?

There’s no one-size-fits-all reason, but here are a few of the most common causes:

• Stress or anxiety: Just like adults, kids can carry their emotions in their jaw. School pressure, changes at home, or even a busy schedule can lead to nighttime grinding. ‍
• Teething or discomfort: Younger children might grind their teeth as new teeth emerge, especially during the toddler years. ‍
• Misaligned bite: If your child’s top and bottom teeth don’t line up properly, they might be grinding without even realizing it. ‍
• Sleep issues: Kids with sleep disorders like sleep apnea or restless sleep are more likely to grind their teeth. ‍
• Habit: Sometimes, it’s just something kids do while falling asleep or during the night without any deeper cause.

Signs Your Child Might Be Grinding Their Teeth

Some kids grind loudly at night — so loud, it can wake up siblings in the next room. Others do it silently, which can make it harder to catch. Here are a few signs to watch for:

• Complaints of jaw pain or soreness in the morning
• Headaches, especially right after waking up
• Unexplained wear on their teeth ‍
• Tooth sensitivity
• Trouble sleeping or restless nights

If you notice any of these signs, it’s worth discussing them at your child’s next dental visit.

What Can You Do About It?

Start by having a conversation with your child. Ask if they’ve noticed anything strange about their jaw or if they ever feel sore when they wake up. From there, the best step is scheduling a visit with your San Pedro family dentist.

A dentist can check for signs of wear, look at your child’s bite, and ask questions about their sleep and habits. Depending on the cause, they might recommend:

• A custom night guard to protect their teeth
• Stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness, stretching, or journaling before bed
• Referrals to a pediatrician or sleep specialist if sleep issues are suspected
• Monitoring if it’s mild and not yet causing damage

Don’t Wait It Out

It’s easy to think, “They’ll grow out of it,” and sometimes they do. However, ignoring teeth grinding can lead to long-term dental problems, especially if it goes untreated for years. The earlier you catch it, the easier it is to protect their smile — and their comfort.

Let the Best San Pedro Family Dentist Take Care of Your Child’s Oral Health

If you suspect your child is grinding their teeth, you don’t have to figure it out alone. A trusted family dentist here at La Cantera Dental Group can help you understand what’s happening and recommend the right steps to keep their smile healthy. Whether it’s stress, sleep, or something else entirely, addressing it early can make a big difference.

So, go ahead and schedule an appointment with us today! We’re here to help your child sleep easier and smile brighter.